Real Madrid keeping tabs on Stuttgart defender Finn Jeltsch | OneFootball

Real Madrid are keeping tabs on Stuttgart defender Finn Jeltsch as they continue to assess young centre-backs who could strengthen their defence in the future, according to AS.

The 20-year-old has emerged as one of the Bundesliga’s most promising defenders since joining Stuttgart from Nuremberg in January 2025, despite little noise around him outside Germany.

Jeltsch is a fast, front-foot defender who is remarkably strong on the ground. His rapid development has reportedly caught the attention of the Spanish giants.

Real Madrid are monitoring Jeltsch despite having no immediate need to add another centre-back.

Los Blancos currently have Dean Huijsen, Ibrahima Konate, Raul Asensio, Antonio Rudiger and Eder Militao as centre-back options.

However, Madrid know they could need additions in the coming years. Rudiger is entering the latter stages of his career, while Militao’s injury history remains a problem.

Meanwhile, Huijsen and Konate are still establishing themselves as key figures at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Jeltsch is an intriguing option. The centre-back has wasted little time making his mark since moving to Stuttgart.

He played almost 2,500 minutes last season, has started the current campaign well, and made his Champions League debut in a 3-1 win over Viking.

In four Bundesliga appearances this term, he has recorded an assist, winning 44 percent of his aerial and 65% of his ground duels.

His performances have now earned international recognition, with Germany boss Jurgen Klopp handing him his first senior call-up.

Jeltsch operates on the right side of a back three or four.

He is particularly comfortable carrying the ball out from defence and has earned praise for his dribbling ability. He is also a solid distributor on short and long passes.

Real Madrid’s interest is worth watching, as they have a knack for signing elite talent early.

However, any move will likely depend on how Jeltsch develops over the remainder of the season and what happens with Madrid’s current defensive options.