A €40 million midfield talent is reportedly set on joining Real Madrid, despite Manchester United’s interest. This story has all the makings of a transfer saga, with a twist that might just surprise you!
Meet Angelo Stiller, the defensive midfielder from VfB Stuttgart who’s making waves in the Bundesliga. Described as the ‘Diamond of the Bundesliga’ in 2025, Stiller has caught the eye of both Manchester United and Real Madrid. With six goals and 22 assists in 98 appearances for Stuttgart, and five caps for Germany, he’s certainly a player to watch.
But here’s where it gets controversial. According to Defensa Central, a Real Madrid-focused news outlet, Stiller prefers the Spanish giants over Manchester United. The report claims that Stiller ‘wants to join Real Madrid and would prioritize the club over any other team’. This preference is said to be influenced by the opportunity to work with Xabi Alonso, the legendary Spanish midfielder turned manager.
Defensa Central adds that ‘sources close to Real Madrid believe Stiller would be eager to wear the white shirt’. They further state that ‘he considers it an ideal project and, clearly, better than Manchester United’s. The Red Devils have been going through a rough patch for a very long time.’
However, Manchester United isn’t giving up just yet. Sources have confirmed to TEAMtalk that the club is genuinely interested in Stiller, with transfer guru Fabrizio Romano stating that ‘Angelo Stiller remains a player monitored by Manchester United. They are following him closely.’
But here’s the part most people miss: Stiller isn’t Manchester United’s top priority for the midfield position in 2026. The club’s number one target is Elliot Anderson, the ace from Nottingham Forest. TEAMtalk understands that Man Utd is confident of striking a deal worth £60 million for Anderson.
So, what does this mean for Stiller? Well, it’s a bit of a tricky situation. With a release clause of €40 million in his contract, Stuttgart could buy it out for just €2 million at any time. And according to Sky Germany journalist Florian Plettenberg, Manchester United is still monitoring Stiller, who is open to a move next summer.
The question remains: will Stiller’s preference for Real Madrid and Xabi Alonso sway the transfer negotiations? Or will Manchester United’s persistence pay off?
What do you think? Should Manchester United focus on their top target, Anderson, or pursue Stiller despite his reported preference? The transfer window is always a game of strategy and surprises, and this story has all the ingredients for an exciting ride. Let’s see how this one unfolds!
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