According to a report by footballTransfers on Thursday October 29, 2026, Liverpool are reportedly keeping tabs on Stuttgart defender Finn Jeltsch as they look ahead to life after Virgil van Dijk.

The 20-year-old is attracting interest from several major clubs, with Barcelona also understood to be keen.

Van Dijk’s contract runs until next summer, and the 35-year-old could leave Anfield in 2027. Though he remains an influential presence, Liverpool must plan for the eventual departure of a defender who has played a central role in the club’s recent success.

The Reds have already invested in young centre-backs. Giovanni Leoni joined in 2025 but is recovering from an ACL injury, while Jeremy Jacquet and Ifeanyi Ndukwe arrived this summer.

Jacquet has featured prominently, but Ndukwe was sent out on loan after work-permit issues limited his options.

Liverpool may still look to strengthen their defence, and Jeltsch has emerged as a possible target. The Stuttgart player can operate at centre-back or right-back, making him a versatile option. His Estimated Transfer Value is around €50 million.

Barcelona are also monitoring the German, with head coach Hansi Flick reportedly pushing for his signing. Their ability to fund a move could depend on the future of Ronald Araújo, who is currently on loan.

Barcelona have a €55 million purchase option, and securing him could affect their plans for Jeltsch.

A January transfer appears unlikely. Stuttgart are reluctant to sell mid-season, and Jeltsch is reportedly content to continue developing at the club. A move next summer, however, could become more realistic if interest continues to grow.

Jeltsch has shown promise, though he is still developing and has made mistakes this season an understandable part of the learning process for a young defender.

Remaining at Stuttgart gives him the chance to gain experience without the immediate pressure of joining a global powerhouse.

Data analytics firm SciSports rates his potential highly. Its projections suggest Jeltsch could eventually reach a level comparable to Van Dijk at his peak: the Dutchman’s highest SciSkill rating was 134.9, while Jeltsch’s projected ceiling is 134.

Such projections are not guarantees, and a player’s progress can take many paths. Still, Jeltsch’s ability and potential make him an intriguing prospect.

If Liverpool decide to pursue him, they may face strong competition for one of Europe’s most promising young defenders.