Bayern Munich face stiff competition for VfB Stuttgart’s teenage centre-back Finn Jeltsch, with Arsenal and Liverpool accelerating their pursuit ahead of the summer window.

Scouts from both Premier League clubs have attended Stuttgart matches with increasing frequency, attracted by the 18-year-old’s composure in possession and his aptitude for the high-pressing systems favoured in England. Liverpool view Jeltsch as a strategic reinforcement for their defensive rotation, while Arsenal’s recruitment team believe his profile mirrors the progressive centre-backs Mikel Arteta has successfully integrated in recent seasons.

Bayern Munich, however, have tracked the Germany U21 international for months and have opened dialogue with Stuttgart officials. German media have likened Jeltsch to a “next-generation Mats Hummels” for his elegance on the ball and anticipatory reading of the game. Bayern regard the youngster as a future cornerstone of their back line, yet any deal is complicated by lingering tension between the two clubs following the Nick Woltemade negotiations.

Stuttgart, reluctant to weaken a squad chasing European qualification, have signalled they will only consider offers approaching €50 million – a figure described by sources as “exceptionally high” for a teenager but reflective of their belief in his long-term value.

With the transfer window nearing, Arsenal and Liverpool currently lead the race, leaving Bayern Munich with a decision to make: escalate their interest or risk watching another top German prospect depart for England.