VfB Stuttgart is currently engaged in contract negotiations with striker Deniz Undav, whose salary demands are reportedly of historic proportions. These discussions are unfolding against the backdrop of a broader debate surrounding his role in the national team.
According to media reports, Undav is seeking a significant salary increase to extend his stay. Despite already being one of the club’s highest earners at 4.5 million euros per year, his demand is reportedly six million euros.
Significantly, VfB Stuttgart has never previously paid such a high annual salary to a player. Nevertheless, an agreement doesn’t seem out of reach. Undav is not only an absolute fan favorite and consistently delivers outstanding performances on the pitch, but the club, under coach Sebastian Hoeneß and sporting director Fabian Wohlgemuth, has also shown a new willingness to invest in top players following their recent resurgence.
Recent summer transfer windows highlight a clear trend: VfB has completed its five most expensive transfers. Another costly talent, Bilal El Khannouss, is set to join permanently for around 18 million euros, which would make him the third most expensive signing in the club’s history. Topping this list is Undav himself, who, after an initial loan, was permanently acquired from Brighton & Hove Albion for nearly 27 million euros for the 2024/25 season.
Bayer Leverkusen Reportedly Monitoring Deniz Undav
Should an agreement with Undav unexpectedly fall through, numerous clubs, both domestic and international, are reportedly already positioning themselves. Bayer Leverkusen, in particular, is mentioned as a potential suitor, possibly hoping to secure his services if negotiations collapse. With Undav’s contract expiring in 2027, he could potentially negotiate a free transfer as early as next January. FC Bayern Munich, however, is said to have no interest.
Undav has proven his scoring prowess this season with 36 goal contributions in 39 competitive matches, making him one of the top scorers in Europe’s major leagues. Only a select few players, such as Harry Kane (1.33 goal contributions per game), Kylian Mbappé (1.22), Michael Olise (1.1), and Luis Díaz (1.03), surpass the 29-year-old in this statistic. The fact that he is often only used as a substitute by national coach Julian Nagelsmann for the German national team recently sparked an extensive debate.
Given Undav’s importance to the team, initial discussions have been respectful and constructive. However, the financial aspect still requires further talks to finalize a mutually satisfactory contract package.
Deniz Undav: Performance Data for VfB Stuttgart in the Current Season
| Competitive Matches | Goals | Assists |
| 39 | 23 | 13 |