Leeds United transfer target, Steven Zuber has ended speculation linking him with a move to Marcelo Bielsa's side after opting to join VFB Stuttgart on loan for the remainder of this season. 

The loan move was confirmed on Hoffenheim's official Twitter page, and it will be a hugely frustrating blow to Leeds.

Zuber is contracted with Hoffenheim until the summer of 2020, but it remains to be seen as to whether his long term future remains with the club.

The Swiss international has been limited to just nine Bundesliga appearances this season, which has led to speculation about his future away from the German club.

Earlier reports from the Mirror suggested that Leeds were unwilling to pay the £10.6m asking price for the winger, but they would have hoped to strike a deal with Hoffenheim.

But this move puts and end to speculation linking him with a move to Marcelo Bielsa's side, and the Leeds boss will have to pursue other targets in this transfer window.

It has been suggested by the Argentine that Leeds aren't going to be very active during the transfer window, but this latest news could tempt the Leeds boss into making alternative signings.

The Whites are currently sat top of the Championship table, and many fans will be confident that Bielsa is the man to take Leeds back into the top flight after a lengthy absence.

The Verdict: 

This is a frustrating blow for Leeds' promotion bid.

They would have hoped to strike a deal for the winger, but his decision to join Stuttgart on loan will certainly come as a surprise.

It remains to be seen as to whether Bielsa will look to sign an alternative winger, but he'll need to add depth to his wide areas if they are to continue their good run of form heading towards the end of the season.