Stuttgart award new contract to young striker Kastanaras

Recently returned from a successful loan stint with promoted 2. Bundesliga side SSV Ulm 1846, 21-year-old German Greek striker Thomas Kastanaras has been awarded  new contract with his parent club. Bundesliga runners-up and German Champions' League representatives VfB Stuttgart have signed the young talent to a new deal good through 2026. 

Whether or Kastanaras shall remain with Stuttgart for the coming season remains to be seen. The Swabians have a need at the striker position following the sale of Serhou Guirassy to Borussia Dortmund and problem-laden attempts to obtain Deniz Undav on a permanent basis. Augsburg captain Ermedin Demirovic's signing still leaves the Württembergers with a need for additional assistance. 

VfB sporting director Fabian Wohlgemuth effectively confirmed that Kastanaras would first be slated for work with the reserves, who themselves earned promotion to the 3. Liga last year. The Stuttgart-native scored three goals and registered an assist for Ulm in the third division last year. He's made four appearances for the VfB first team, including one start under former trainer Bruno Labbadia.

“Thomas already made his first appearances in the 3rd division at SSV Ulm last season," Wohlgemuth noted in a club statement, "and he will now have the opportunity to play in this demanding league with our U21s in the coming season and gain important experience for his future career. We will promote his development in the best possible way in close cooperation between the U21s and the professional squad."