Sasa Kalajdzic has told Kicker that he would consider leaving Stuttgart this summer amid links to Tottenham Hotspur, but the offer would have to be very enticing for him to move.
The German publication note that Kalajdzic is one of the most sought-after Austrian players following a sublime 2020/21 season. After missing much of the previous term with a serious knee injury, the 24-year-old scored 17 times across all competitions.
Of his goals, Kalajdzic fired home 16 in the Bundesliga to help Stuttgart finish ninth in their first year back in the top-flight. It was the sixth-most by anyone in the division, despite never playing in the German first-tier before.
Stuttgart fans have taken to Kalajdzic fondly and he can imagine staying at the Mercedes-Benz Arena for a long time. But that has not stopped Tottenham from showing an interest, with Fussball Transfers reporting in April that Spurs spoke with Stuttgart about Kalajdzic.
The Daily Mail and Eurosport also noted Tottenham’s interest in Kalajdzic at the time. While The Athletic later noted Newcastle want the Stuttgart star, but know they cannot afford him. Fussball News claimed West Ham, too, are keen and that he could cost €25m (£21.5m).
Stuttgart Sporting Director Sven Mislintat is yet to receive any official bids, however. And Kalajdzic admits he is not actively considering Tottenham or anyone’s interest right now.
“I don’t think about it,” Kalajdzic said of the rumours regarding his future. “I’m here, having fun with friends and preparing for the season. If something impressed me, I would do it. But that would have to come first.”
Kalajdzic offers Tottenham hope amid pursuit of Stuttgart star
While Kalajdzic is not actively considering leaving Stuttgart, his comments will offer Tottenham hope of a deal. Spurs should be able to comfortably afford the 11-cap Austrian, who scored against eventual champions Italy at Euro 2020.
Fabio Paratici would easily be able to table a better contract than his current £7,600-per-week deal, as well. A value Kicker note is far from what he is worth after a superb 2020/21 season as he became pivotal.
All that remains is for Paratici to put the pieces together and make Stuttgart star Kalajdzic a Tottenham player. The puzzle is fractured, but he has mapped out how to fix the problem.
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