VfB Stuttgart are monitoring Wolverhampton Wanderers centre-back Ladislav Krejčí as they consider defensive reinforcements, though any move for the Czech international would be contingent on player sales, according to Bild.
Relegation prompts Wolves uncertainty
The 27-year-old’s future at Molineux has become uncertain following the club’s relegation from the Premier League last season. Wolves invested €30 million to sign Krejčí from Girona just last year, but they now face the prospect of losing key assets as they prepare for Championship football. While the Midlands club may struggle to recoup their full outlay, they are not prepared to sanction a bargain departure for a player who has demonstrated his quality at the highest level.
The West Midlands club face a challenging summer as they balance the books following demotion. Several high-profile figures are expected to depart, with Krejčí among those attracting continental interest despite his brief stay in English football. His adaptation to the physical demands of the top flight demonstrated his resilience, though second-tier football is unlikely to satisfy a defender in his prime years.
Stuttgart wait on sales
The Bundesliga side view Krejčí as a viable target to strengthen their backline, yet financial constraints mean a transfer would only become realistic after generating funds through outgoing moves. Defenders Jeff Chabot and Ramon Hendriks have been earmarked as potential departure candidates. Chabot has reportedly attracted interest from Italian clubs following an impressive campaign, while Hendriks has put negotiations over a new contract with Stuttgart on hold, opening the door to exits that would free up resources for an approach.
Stuttgart finished as Bundesliga runners-up last season and will compete in the Champions League next term, increasing the demand for defensive depth and experience. Should Chabot or Hendriks depart, Krejčí would reportedly become Stuttgart’s primary target to fill the void.
International pedigree
Krejčí brings significant leadership experience to any prospective suitor. He recently captained the Czech Republic at the World Cup, featuring in all three of their group-stage matches and scoring in the tournament’s opening fixture against South Korea. His organisational qualities and defensive versatility make him an attractive option for Stuttgart manager Sebastian Hoeneß as he looks to shore up his squad for domestic and European campaigns.
No formal bid has been submitted, and talks remain at a preliminary stage. Stuttgart’s sporting director will likely wait for clarity on outgoing transfers before testing Wolves’ resolve with an official approach. For now, Krejčí remains a Wolves player, but the coming weeks could determine whether he cuts short his English adventure for a return to top-flight continental football.