Styopa Mkrtchyan, defender for the Armenian national team and Croatian club Osijek, is reportedly close to signing with German side Nuremberg, according to Kicker, citing Sportske Novosti, as reported by Factor.am .

An official announcement regarding the 22-year-old's transfer is expected soon.

During the current winter transfer window, Nuremberg parted ways with several defenders, including Robin Knoche, Ondrej Karafiat, and Tim Drexler. The club is now seeking to reinforce its defensive line.

Nuremberg is coached by former German national team player and ex-Bayern Munich striker Miroslav Klose.

The club plays in Germany’s second-tier league, the 2. Bundesliga. After 20 matchdays, Nuremberg sits 10th in the standings with 26 points.

Mkrtchyan joined Osijek in July 2023 from Ararat-Armenia (Yerevan). He has made 19 appearances this season.

According to Transfermarkt, his market value is estimated at €400,000.

Mkrtchyan debuted for the Armenian national team in 2022 and has since earned 23 caps.