Stuttgart reject €35m offer for Finn Jeltsch, leaving United to search for defensive cover as January approaches

Stuttgart have decided to keep their Germany Under‑21 defender Finn Jeltsch, whose market value hit around €35 million in spring 2026, and will not sell him in the January window despite interest from Manchester United. Reports say United are among several clubs eyeing the 23‑year‑old centre‑back.

The Red Devils spent the majority of the summer transfer window bolstering their midfield, securing Youri Tielemans from Aston Villa, Carlos Baleba from Brighton and Andrey Santos from Chelsea. Yet they remain short‑handed at the back, prompting rumours of a left‑back and left‑winger target and a possible striker replacement if Joshua Zirkzee departs. Only backup goalkeeper Karl Darlow and Tottenham youngster Tynan Thompson joined, as United plan to revamp their defence in 2027.

Fans expressed disappointment that United did not add more defensive reinforcements after Michael Carrick guided them to a third‑place finish and Champions League qualification. The club’s limited activity has left many questioning the strategy, especially given the defensive frailties exposed in recent matches.

United's defensive shortage

Gary Neville warned that United were still lacking a left‑back and a centre‑back to cope with injuries, saying a perfect world would see Michael Carrick advise a full defensive rebuild. He noted United spent £170 million on attackers last season and £150 million on midfielders this year, opting to address the back line piece by piece.

Neville highlighted that United’s back four had been vulnerable, conceding 50 goals last season and four in the opening two Premier League games this term. He praised Carlos Baleba as the most physical and defensive midfielder, stressing the midfield’s role in shielding the defence.

Stuttgart's stance on Jeltsch

Stuttgart have reportedly decided not to sell the Germany Under‑21 international over the next year, citing his contract until 2030 and a market value that had already reached around €35 million. The club sees no need to part with the rapidly growing defender, despite interest from Juventus and other suitors.

For United, the decision means they must continue searching for alternative centre‑back or full‑back options before the January deadline, while Stuttgart retain a valuable asset whose price is set to climb further.