The 20-year-old has established himself as an important player for Stuttgart since arriving from 1. FC Nürnberg in February 2025. His performances have attracted attention from leading European clubs, with Sky Sport Germany previously reporting that scouts from Barcelona and Inter Milan watched him during Stuttgart’s Champions League match against Viking Stavanger.
Spanish newspaper SPORT now reports that Liverpool are also interested, with Barcelona keen to strengthen their defence and Real Madrid tracking the player as they consider their own options at centre-back.
Jeltsch’s profile makes him an appealing long-term target. He is comfortable defending in space and operating with a high defensive line, qualities that suit teams seeking to press aggressively and keep possession. His development has been rapid, and he has become a regular for Stuttgart despite his age.
The defender’s contract runs until June 2030, giving VfB Stuttgart a strong position in any potential negotiations. Reports in Spain suggest the Bundesliga club could demand more than €60 million.
A January move is considered unlikely in the reports, with a transfer next summer appearing a more realistic possibility if interest turns into formal approaches. No club is reported to have submitted an offer.
Barcelona manager Hansi Flick is said to approve of the potential signing, while Liverpool’s interest adds further competition for a player whose performances have drawn growing attention this season.
The situation may also have implications for Barcelona’s wider defensive planning. SPORT notes that Ronald Araújo’s loan move to Liverpool and a reported €55 million purchase clause could become part of the wider picture, although there is no confirmation that the two situations are connected.
For now, Jeltsch remains a Stuttgart player with a long-term contract. Liverpool, Barcelona and Real Madrid are among the clubs reported to be following his progress, but any transfer remains at the monitoring stage.