Stuttgart linked with Gruda, El Khannouss and Claude-Maurice as Woltemade nears Newcastle move

Brajan Gruda, Bilal El Khannous and Alexis Claude-Maurice are all being linked with VfB Stuttgart, who are looking to bolster their squad with Nick Woltemade close to joining Newcastle United.

With VfB Stuttgart set to sell Nick Woltemade to Newcastle United in a reported €90 million deal, the Bundesliga club are looking to strengthen their squad before the transfer deadline on Monday.

Shortly after reports of Woltemade’s impending move emerged, Sky Germany reported that Stuttgart are exploring the possibility of signing former Mainz star Brajan Gruda on loan from Brighton & Hove Albion.

The 21-year-old is reportedly not entirely happy with his playing time at the English club and could be tempted by a move, though Brighton would ideally like to keep him.

Meanwhile, Foot Mercato reports that Stuttgart are preparing a fresh offer for Leicester City’s attacking midfielder Bilal El Khannouss, who has long been linked with the Swabians.

Bild reports that Stuttgart have also reignited their interest in Augsburg’s Alexis Claude-Maurice. Augsburg are keen to retain the attacking midfielder, which is why they are reportedly only willing to negotiate for €25 million or more.

However, with Claude-Maurice reportedly unwilling to extend his contract, which runs until 2027, selling now could be in Augsburg’s best interest. 

After all, their negotiating position would be weaker next summer, when the player would have just one year remaining on his deal.