Liverpool are scouting Stuttgart defender Finn Jeltsch as they assess younger options for the future of their defence. The 20-year-old has attracted attention in the Bundesliga with his ability to play at centre-back and right-back.
Jeltsch is regarded as one of Germany’s most promising young defenders and has also received recognition at senior international level. His versatility is understood to be a key part of Liverpool’s interest.
Liverpool scouting Finn Jeltsch alongside Bayern Munich
German football journalist Christian Falk said Liverpool scouts had recently watched Jeltsch, with Bayern Munich and several other leading European clubs also monitoring his progress.
Falk described the Stuttgart player as young, talented and adaptable. Jeltsch’s comparatively affordable status, when measured against other highly-rated defensive prospects, is also believed to have contributed to the level of interest in him.
There is no expectation that Jeltsch will rush into a move to the Premier League. He is thought to favour a gradual progression in his career and remains under contract with Stuttgart until 2030.
The defender’s emergence comes as Liverpool consider their long-term succession planning at the back. Virgil van Dijk is approaching the latter stages of his career, increasing the importance of identifying potential future replacements before an urgent need arises.
Jeltsch’s capacity to cover two positions would offer Liverpool additional flexibility. His continued involvement with Germany’s senior squad, after Jürgen Klopp included him again this month, underlines the regard in which he is held.
Bayern may provide a particularly attractive alternative because the club could offer Jeltsch the chance to remain in Germany while taking a step up. That could appeal more than an immediate move abroad.
Liverpool are therefore expected to maintain their interest rather than force the issue. Continued scouting would allow the club to follow Jeltsch’s development at Stuttgart and potentially position themselves to move if he later decides he is ready for the Premier League.
