Personally, I really like the current actor playing Stefan. But, to me, Stefan was never, ever, the kind of devious, nasty mean, plotting person that Stefano was, or even Andre. 1st Stefan was pretty quiet, never said much, certainly was not doing much in way of business, stayed in the house, and crushed on Gabby. Not any sort of personality at all. When recasted, the character became more animated, displaying emotions, got more involved with other Salemites, etc. it is a shame if the character was written out.
That said, who knows who might be coming to town, or even returning at some point. Plus Days has not done well in their pairings....until they accidentally hit gold, and then they ruin it. They get a strong actor, but concentrate on weak story for weaker actors, while causing others to look like idiots with their storyline. Next thing we know, Ben will be gone, Xander, too.
It is time, tho, some Days characters just be without so-called partners. Everyone does not have to be "paired" up with anyone.