Stuttgart splashes €15m on Leo Sauer as Feyenoord cut ties

Leo Sauer completes a move from Feyenoord to VfB Stuttgart, signing a contract that runs until mid‑2031. The German club has agreed to pay more than €15 million, including bonuses, for the 20‑year‑old winger. © Getty ImagesLeo Sauer vertrekt bij Feyenoord.

The transfer was announced as a "Feyenoord.Transfer" and marks a significant investment by the Duitse side. Stuttgart hopes the addition will bolster their attacking options and potentially give Sauer Champions League exposure. The deal also includes a sell‑on percentage retained by Feyenoord.

Sauer arrived at Feyenoord from the youth academy of MSK Zilina and made his senior debut under Arne Slot on 20 August 2023 in a derby against Sparta, where he scored. That early impact highlighted his technical ability and goal‑scoring instinct. Under Arne Slot he quickly became a promising option on the wing.

Stuttgart’s €15m gamble on 20‑year‑old Slovak forward Leo Sauer

A year after his debut, the club loaned him to NAC to secure more playing minutes. He has not featured a minute in recent preparation for Feyenoord, still recovering from a muscle injury that sidelined him at the end of the previous season. The injury did not deter Stuttgart, who signed him despite his fitness concerns.

During his time at De Kuip, Sauer accumulated 44 official appearances, contributing six goals and assists. His contract with Feyenoord was set to run until mid‑2028, but the new deal extends his stay at Stuttgart to 2031. Robin van Persie's guidance gave him a chance last season before a February setback.

Stuttgart’s ambition includes Champions League football, a stage Sauer will now be able to contest. Earlier, TSG Hoffenheim had also shown interest in the Slovak‑born attacker. The move therefore aligns with Stuttgart’s European aspirations.

For Feyenoord, the departure of a young talent means a loss of potential on‑field contributions, yet the retained sell‑on clause could yield future financial benefit. At Stuttgart, Sauer adds depth to the wing and a player eager to prove himself at a higher level. Bij Stuttgart he will aim to become a regular starter and help the club achieve its continental goals.