Prömel, 31, is VfB Stuttgart's first confirmed signing for 2026-27 and arrives on a three-year contract until June 2029. He leaves Hoffenheim when his contract expires at the end of June, making the move without a transfer fee. Born in Cannstatt and raised in nearby Esslingen, he returns to his home region for the first time as a professional.
"The desire to one day join VfB is one I've had for quite some time," Prömel said in the club's official statement. "I was born in Cannstatt, grew up in Esslingen and have always followed VfB over the years.
"In a way, it's a dream come true for me and I'm excited to be wearing the Brustring from next season. VfB have built incredible momentum in recent years and are known for their attractive style of play. It's impressive to see where the club now stands — and it feels right to become part of this journey."
Prömel came through the Hoffenheim academy before spells at Stuttgarter Kickers and Karlsruher SC. He made his Bundesliga debut in 2018-19 for 1. FC Union Berlin at the age of 24, going on to make 141 competitive appearances for the Berlin club and scoring 20 goals.
He joined Hoffenheim in 2022 and made 87 appearances in all competitions, contributing 14 goals and eight assists. This season he scored seven goals and provided two assists in 33 Bundesliga outings despite carrying the effects of the anterior cruciate ligament injury that had forced him to miss much of the previous campaign.
Sporting director Fabian Wohlgemuth welcomed the signing as both a footballing and cultural fit.
"Grischa has outstanding footballing abilities, is enormously ambitious and has gained a lot of valuable experience in recent years. That combination makes him a very valuable addition — and the fact that he comes from the region and therefore has a strong affinity with VfB makes him all the more so."
The second announcement saw Funk, 30, return to Stuttgart on a two-year deal until June 2028. The goalkeeper spent six years at the club between 2010 and 2016 in the youth and reserve setups before moving on through Paderborn, Frankfurt's reserve side, Hansa Rostock and Energie Cottbus, where his contract now expires. He is expected to join the squad either as third-choice senior goalkeeper or as number one for Stuttgart's third-division reserve side.
Wohlgemuth described Funk's return as a welcome reunion.
"Marius returns now as an established professional. We are convinced he will be an important addition both for his footballing qualities and his character."
Two arrivals in two days. Stuttgart's rebuild is open for business.