Stuttgart midfielder Angelo Stiller is reportedly being considered by Manchester United ahead of the summer transfer window, with the club expected to be looking to sign at least one new midfielder. Casemiro will leave Old Trafford at the end of the season when his contract expires, but Manuel Ugarte’s departure remains unclear.
Stiller was set to join United last summer, but in the end the recruitment department opted to focus on strengthening the attacking team. Brian Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha and Benjamin Sesko made big-money moves, while Andre Onana was replaced by Senne Lamence in goal. United remain in the hunt for Carlos Bareva, Elliott Anderson, Bruno Guimarães and Adam Wharton, with Steeler also thought to be a potential target. Nevertheless, Stuttgart are in a good position to keep him.
They could buy his €40m (£34m) release clause for just €2m (£1.7m), allowing them to keep him for that price or move him on for a sizable profit later on. Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg said the clause could be triggered “at any time” and Mr Stiller “could not refuse”, meaning he would collect the £1.7m “immediately”.
It was further highlighted that his contract, which extends until the summer of 2028, remains unchanged, with only the £34m clause removed. For United and any other interested clubs, this means that the transfer fee will have to be negotiated directly with Stuttgart, and a transfer will only be possible if a substantial offer is made.
Last November, Stuttgart’s sporting director Fabian Wolgemuth was asked about Stiller’s future and replied: “He has a contract with us. It’s too early to speculate about that.”
“Of course one or two clubs will be looking at him. He’s had a great season. Maybe he’ll be in the World Cup, we’ll see.”
“I’m glad he’s with us. It’s part of the entertainment we have to cover. But there’s nothing concrete. He can focus completely on VfB Stuttgart.”
The German international played in 44 games this season, scoring one goal and providing six assists.
