Stuttgart are building with clear ambition ahead of their return to the Champions League, and the transfer window is defining their pre-season story. The club appears close to signing Feyenoord winger Leo Sauer for a reported fee of 12.5 to 15 million euros plus bonuses, as reported by Bild and Sky. The 20-year-old left-footed attacker impressed against Germany in World Cup qualifying and is seen as a direct challenger for places on the left flank occupied by Chris Führich and Jamie Leweling. Trainer Sebastian Hoeneß is said to have been particularly persuaded by Sauer's profile.

The pursuit of Wolfsburg striker Dzenan Pejcinovic remains the other major storyline, though progress has stalled. Sporting director Fabian Wohlgemuth confirmed after the 2-2 friendly draw with Paris FC that Stuttgart remain "far from" a deal, with Wolfsburg holding firm at 25 million euros and Stuttgart yet to match that figure, according to reporting on the negotiations. FC Porto have since entered the race with their own offer, complicating Stuttgart's position further, as Bild reported.

Elsewhere, uncertainty surrounds Jamie Leweling after a photo emerged suggesting he was at Stuttgart airport ahead of a flight to London, sparking transfer speculation. Teammate Deniz Undav moved quickly to dismiss the rumours, as Bild cited, though Leweling has missed the Chiemsee training camp with a persistent illness. Stuttgart have also welcomed Dutch striker Tim van der Leij, signed from RKC Waalwijk for 1.2 million euros and initially destined for the reserve team, as detailed in his profile. A friendly against Everton on August 8 is next up as preparations continue.