Fenerbahçe have officially ended speculation linking them with a summer move for VfB Stuttgart striker Ermedin Demirović, declaring their interest “completely unfounded” in a statement issued on Thursday. The Turkish Super Lig club confirmed they “shall not make any transfer attempts on the player concerned,” removing themselves from the chase for the Bosnia and Herzegovina international.
The denial leaves Juventus and Leeds United as the primary clubs reportedly monitoring the 28-year-old, whose future at the Mercedes-Benz Arena remains uncertain despite a prolific spell in the Bundesliga. Manager Sebastian Hoeneß is understood to be open to selling Demirović this summer, a stance that conflicts with the wishes of both the player and Stuttgart’s management, who had hoped to continue their cooperation.
Demirović has established himself as a reliable goalscorer since arriving in Germany, netting 32 goals in 87 appearances across his first two seasons. He played a key role in Stuttgart’s DFB-Pokal triumph in 2024/25, providing four assists throughout the tournament. At international level, he started all four games for Bosnia and Herzegovina at the World Cup, underlining his status as a key figure for his country.
Long-term deal complicates exit
Any negotiations are complicated by Demirović’s contractual situation. The forward remains tied to Stuttgart until 2028, placing the German club in a commanding position to demand a substantial fee should they decide to cash in on their attacking asset. This long-term commitment means Stuttgart can afford to drive a hard bargain for the Hamburg-born striker, who is currently in his prime years.
Juventus are considering Demirović as an option to strengthen their forward line ahead of the new campaign, potentially offering Champions League football in Turin. Meanwhile, Leeds United have also registered firm interest as they prepare for their Championship season, with promotion to the Premier League likely their pitch to the Bosnian.
With Fenerbahçe now out of the running, the path has cleared for either the Italian giants or the English club to test Stuttgart’s resolve with a formal offer. However, with pre-season preparations underway, the German club must soon resolve the impasse between their manager’s willingness to sell and the player’s desire to remain in the Bundesliga.