Manchester City are reportedly keeping close tabs on VfB Stuttgart’s Mirza Catovic, as the club weigh up a renewed move for the highly rated 18-year-old defensive midfielder.
According to Sky Deutschland, City’s recruitment team have continued to monitor Catovic’s progress after previously trying to sign him earlier this year. The teenager, regarded as one of Stuttgart’s “top talents”, has impressed across multiple youth levels and recently been included in senior matchday squads for the Europa League.
City’s growing interest in Catovic
Catovic joined Stuttgart from Rot-Weiss Frankfurt in 2022 and has since risen quickly through the ranks, representing the club’s U17, U19 and reserve sides. Known for his positional awareness, versatility, and composure in possession, the youngster can also play at centre-back or as a central midfielder — attributes that fit perfectly with Manchester City’s development model.
Sky’s report claims the Citizens are closely observing his progress, and internal discussions have taken place regarding a possible second approach.
“Catovic is viewed within Stuttgart as one of their top talents. Manchester City have not given up on him and remain very interested in his development.” — Sky Deutschland
Previous City interest led by academy chief
Manchester City’s current academy director Thomas Krücken played a pivotal role in bringing Catovic to Stuttgart during his four-year spell at the German club between 2019 and 2023. Krücken reportedly tried to sign the player for City in January 2025, but Catovic opted instead to commit his future to Stuttgart, signing a new contract until 2028.
That decision was seen as a vote of confidence in Stuttgart’s pathway to senior football — though City’s continued monitoring suggests they see long-term value in keeping a connection open.
Stuttgart’s stance and Catovic’s focus
Stuttgart, meanwhile, are keen to integrate Catovic into the first-team picture this season. The youngster has trained regularly with the senior squad and been included on the bench for two Europa League matches, though he is yet to make his debut.
Sources close to the player say his priority remains breaking into Stuttgart’s first team, but his camp are aware of City’s ongoing interest. A potential transfer would likely hinge on whether he receives regular top-flight opportunities in the months ahead.
| Mirza Catovic (2024/25 Season) | Stuttgart II (Regionalliga) |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 24 |
| Goals | 2 |
| Assists | 3 |
| Contract Expiry | June 2028 |
source: Sky Deutschland / Transfermarkt – 21 October 2025
Our View: City’s academy strategy in full swing
In our view, Manchester City’s continued interest in Catovic reflects their long-term youth recruitment vision — targeting high-IQ, positionally flexible players from across Europe. With Krücken’s prior connection and a focus on technical development, City see Catovic as a player who could evolve within their elite pathway.
However, with the midfielder under a long-term deal, Stuttgart are in a strong position to resist any immediate advances. City may instead opt to build the relationship for a future move once Catovic establishes himself at senior level.
FootballPlace analyst John William notes:
“Catovic fits Manchester City’s academy blueprint perfectly — composed on the ball, tactically sharp, and already showing maturity beyond his years. City rarely stop tracking players they believe in, so this won’t be the last time we hear his name linked.”
Key Insights
- Manchester City monitoring Stuttgart’s Mirza Catovic closely
- 18-year-old described by Sky Deutschland as one of Stuttgart’s “top talents”
- City’s academy chief Thomas Krücken previously worked with him in Germany
- Catovic signed a new contract until 2028 but remains on City’s radar
- Decision on his future will depend on first-team chances this season
What’s Next
Manchester City are expected to continue tracking Catovic throughout the 2025/26 campaign, with scouts regularly attending Stuttgart II fixtures. A renewed push could come next summer if his integration into the first team accelerates.
👉 Could Mirza Catovic be Manchester City’s next teenage recruit from Germany?
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