Eintracht Frankfurt are weighing up an approach for VfB Stuttgart forward Ermedin Demirović, according to BILD, despite the Bosnia and Herzegovina international recently stating his desire to remain with the Bundesliga side.
The 26-year-old reaffirmed his commitment to Stuttgart earlier this month following links to clubs in England, Italy and Turkey. “I’ve always said I want to stay at VfB. I harmonize very well with the coach,” Demirović told reporters, adding that “nothing has changed” in his stance. Fenerbahçe officially dismissed rumours connecting them with the forward.
Frankfurt’s interest emerges as they prepare to lose Elye Wahi, who is expected to move to OGC Nice on a permanent deal. The Europa Conference League participants are consequently searching for an experienced forward to lead their line next season.
Significant hurdles remain
Any pursuit of Demirović faces substantial obstacles. The striker holds a contract with Stuttgart until 2028, giving the Swabians strong negotiating leverage. Financially, his reported €3.5 million annual salary could prove problematic for Frankfurt’s wage structure.
Furthermore, a switch would require Demirović to sacrifice Champions League football. Stuttgart qualified for Europe’s premier competition after finishing second in the Bundesliga, whereas Frankfurt will compete in the Conference League following their domestic campaign.
Stuttgart continue squad building
The prospective departure of Demirović appears increasingly unlikely from Stuttgart’s perspective, particularly after they invested €25 million to sign Dženan Pejčinović from VfL Wolfsburg. That arrival demonstrates the club’s ambition to strengthen rather than dismantle their squad ahead of their return to Europe’s elite club competition.
While Frankfurt continue to monitor the situation, convincing both the player and his current employers to sanction a transfer this summer promises to be a complex undertaking given these circumstances.