In a significant transfer move, Luca Jaquez, a promising 21-year-old defender from FC Luzern, has joined VfB Stuttgart in the Bundesliga. This transfer comes as Stuttgart reacts to the departure of Anthony Rouault, who moved to Rennes for approximately €15 million. Jaquez's transfer fee of €6 million has equaled the club record previously set by midfielder Ardon Jashari's transfer to FC Brugge.
Jaquez, who has signed a contract until the summer of 2029, will face competition from fellow new signing Finn Jeltsch, an 18-year-old talent who recently contributed to Germany's U17 team winning both the World Cup and European Championship titles in December 2023. Jeltsch has made 18 appearances for 1. FC Nürnberg this season.
VfB Stuttgart's recent participation in the Champions League has bolstered their financial standing, allowing them to invest in Jaquez. The transfer fee is welcomed by FC Luzern, especially in light of their financial disputes with former majority shareholder Bernhard Alpstaeg. Jaquez expressed his enthusiasm for joining Stuttgart, stating, 'It is a great opportunity and challenge for me to play for VfB Stuttgart in the Bundesliga.'
Under head coach Sebastian Hoeness, Jaquez will wear the number 14 jersey, transitioning from the number 4 he wore at FC Luzern. With 66 professional appearances and three goals to his name, Jaquez aims to repay the trust placed in him with dedicated performances.