Labbadia fears Tasci exit

Stuttgart manager Bruno Labbadia believes the club's decision to cut the wage bill means keeping star defender Serdar Tasci is critical.

We have a competitive disadvantage, complains Stuttgart boss

Stuttgart manager Bruno Labbadia believes the club's decision to cut the wage bill means keeping star defender Serdar Tasci is critical. Budgets are being cut at the Mercedes-Benz Arena and Tasci could be among those heading for the exit amid reports of interest from Barcelona. Labbadia admits he is worried about the 25-year-old Germany international leaving - not least because he is aware that the club do not have the resources to replace him. "We already have a small competitive disadvantage regarding our main rivals in the league," Labbadia told kicker-Sportmagazin. "Of course, we have to be aware and we have to ensure this disadvantage is not getting out of hand. "I am very worried about Tasci, like I am worried about every player of my first-team squad. "We would not possess the resources to sign a good replacement." Tasci is a product of the Stuttgart youth system and has played nearly 200 games for the club. He has two years remaining on his contract with the Reds.