VfB Stuttgart Blocks Mirza Catovic Transfer to Hoffenheim

Kicker has reported that VfB Stuttgart has blocked a €3.5 million transfer of 18-year-old midfielder Mirza Catovic to Hoffenheim. The promising talent, who has been a regular in the VfB reserves playing in the 3. Liga, was poised to make the switch to TSG II. However, Stuttgart decided against the move, citing the lack of a buyback option as the primary reason for their veto.

Catovic, a defensive midfielder who made his debut with the VfB reserve team late in 2024, secured a professional contract in February 2025. Since then, he has featured in various midfield roles for VfB II and has the versatility to also play in central defense. This season, he has started 16 matches in the 3. Liga, which has led to an increase in his market value from €800,000 to €1.5 million.

Due to the depth of talent in Stuttgart’s midfield, Catovic currently faces limited playing opportunities in Württemberg. Nevertheless, the club is keen on retaining the option to bring him back in the future. Hoffenheim, however, declined Stuttgart’s proposal to include a buyback clause, which ultimately resulted in the cancellation of the transfer.

The situation regarding Catovic is still evolving, as RB Salzburg has expressed interest in the young midfielder. Should the Austrian club agree to Stuttgart’s request for a buyback clause, a sale could still be negotiated. The transfer window in Germany remains open until Monday, February 2nd, at 20:00 CET.

Furthermore, Bundesliga clubs can still sell or loan players to foreign clubs where the transfer window remains open after this date. In Austria, for instance, the window will remain operational until Friday, February 6th, allowing ample time for Stuttgart and Salzburg to finalize a deal.