Stuttgart's summer transfer window has reached a decisive moment, with the club closing in on their primary attacking target. Wolfsburg sporting director Dieter Hecking confirmed on Saturday evening that an agreement had been reached with another club over striker Dzenan Pejcinovic, and kicker reports that club is Stuttgart. The fee meets Wolfsburg's asking price of €25 million, and only a medical now stands in the way of the deal becoming official.

The breakthrough comes after weeks of frustrating negotiations. As recently as August 2, sporting director Fabian Wohlgemuth admitted Stuttgart were "far from" a positive outcome, with the two clubs far apart on valuation. Competition from FC Porto, who made an initial offer of €23 million, only hardened Wolfsburg's position. That Stuttgart eventually met the full asking price reflects both the player's importance to their plans and the pressure that head coach Sebastian Hoeneß has applied publicly.

Hoeneß made his frustration plain during the Grassau training camp, warning that time was running out to build a squad capable of competing in the Champions League. His comments echoed a similar standoff twelve months ago, when Nick Woltemade's departure left the attack short. Pejcinovic, who scored 12 goals in 34 appearances for Wolfsburg last season, gives Stuttgart a physical centre-forward option they have lacked.

Off the pitch, defender Finn Jeltsch drew attention after telling local media that a call from Germany coach Jürgen Klopp would be a dream, while playing down reported interest from Bayern Munich by stressing his focus remains on Stuttgart's Champions League campaign. Stuttgart beat Everton 3-1 in their most recent friendly and face Fulham next on August 15 as preparations continue.