Fabrizio Romano reiterates that Manchester United did not make last-minute efforts to sign Angelo Stiller
Manchester United have long been searching for a defensive midfielder capable of providing balance between defence and attack. It’s a pivotal role that can change the course of a game, where a team can either look solid or completely exposed. Players like Bruno Fernandes and Kobbie Mainoo thrive as box-to-box midfielders, but when pushed deeper, their limitations become evident. This lack of defensive presence has often left United vulnerable to counter-attacks. That’s why names like Carlos Baleba have been linked, with his profile showing he could offer both security and control in midfield.
Angelo Stiller’s status and the summer reports
This summer, speculation around Stuttgart midfielder Angelo Stiller caused a stir among United fans. However, Fabrizio Romano has clarified that an exit never came close. Real Madrid did not agree on personal terms with him, and United never made a last-minute move either. In short, much of the talk surrounding Stiller was based purely on speculation.
That said, the German has openly admitted his interest in playing abroad in the future. At 24, Stiller has established himself in Stuttgart but appears ready for the next step. According to Sports Illustrated, he has spoken about moving to another league, while Yahoo Sports reported that a potential deal fell through this time because he wanted assurances of consistent game time ahead of the World Cup. Clearly, Stiller is making deliberate career choices rather than jumping at the first big offer.
Stiller’s future from United’s perspective
Manchester United
Stiller wanting a move to United in 2026 is definitely possible
Looking ahead, United could revisit the idea of signing Stiller in 2026, especially since his release clause is reportedly around £31.5m. For a midfielder of his quality, that would represent an attractive option for any top European club. The bigger question, though, is whether he fits into Ruben Amorim’s plans.
Amorim was pushing for a physically dominant, ball-winning midfielder like Carlos Baleba this summer. Stiller, by contrast, is a different profile: more of a tempo-setter, adept at keeping possession and dictating play, but not known for his physicality or defensive steel. In Amorim’s double-pivot system, where one midfielder needs to break up play and cover ground, Stiller may not tick the primary box.
Still, his technical quality and experience could prove valuable in the long run. If United continue to struggle in midfield and the conditions are right in 2026, Stiller’s name could resurface. The club has made the mistake of waiting too long or pursuing the wrong profile before. Missing out on a player with Stiller’s attributes, if he becomes available at the right price, might be a mistake they cannot afford to repeat.