Heidenheim Secures Leonidas Stergiou on Loan from VfB Stuttgart

Heidenheim has officially secured the loan of VfB Stuttgart defender Leonidas Stergiou. This transfer, which had been under negotiation for some time, faced delays due to concerns from Stuttgart’s head coach, Sebastian Hoeneß, regarding his team’s limited defensive options.

After winning both of their matches since the Bundesliga’s 2026 restart, Stuttgart is now satisfied with their defensive lineup, which includes Josha Vagnoman, Ramon Hendriks, Jeff Chabot, and Maximilian Mittelstädt.

Reports from Sky Germany and Kicker confirm that the loan agreement does not feature a purchase option. Additionally, Kicker indicates that Stuttgart will receive a modest six-figure fee for the loan transaction. With Stergiou’s arrival, Heidenheim has successfully acquired both a right back and a left back during the January transfer window.

Stergiou is expected to strengthen the right side of the defense, while Hoffenheim reserve player Hennes Behrens will bolster the left. Last season, Stergiou made 18 appearances across all competitions under Hoeneß, often playing as a center-back, though he has occasionally featured in central defense for the Stuttgart reserves this season.

FCH CEO Holger Sanwald expressed confidence in Stergiou’s capabilities, stating, “With Leonidas Stergiou, we are adding a player to our defense who knows the Bundesliga inside out and, despite his young age, already possesses considerable experience. We are convinced that Leo can help us immediately in the current challenging situation with his footballing quality and his attitude on the pitch.”

Stergiou himself commented on the loan, saying, “I am very happy about this loan within the Bundesliga. It is a great opportunity for me to get regular playing time again and to help FCH stay in the league at the end of the season.”