Manchester United are now seriously considering a late move for a "wonderful" midfielder, ahead of the September 1st transfer deadline.
Man Utd looking to strengthen midfield amid Mainoo uncertainty
Kobbie Mainoo is yet to make an appearance in the Premier League this season, but Ruben Amorim has recently insisted he is a big fan of the midfielder, saying: "I believe a lot in Kobbie; more than what everyone thinks. I believe a lot in Kobbie. I expect a lot from him. He is playing in one position and is fighting with Bruno. They can play together.
"We need to improve that position and you could see that against Fulham. I just expect the best from Kobbie in the same way as everybody."
Mainoo was given the opportunity to prove himself against Grimsby Town on Wednesday night, and the 20-year-old was one of the only players to put in something resembling a decent performance.
However, there is now a great deal of uncertainty surrounding the youngster's future, with Leeds United now showing the strongest interest in a deal for the central midfielder, who is open to leaving Old Trafford before the September 1st deadline.
As such, according to a report from Spain, INEOS may not be done in the transfer market, with a move for VfB Stuttgart's Angelo Stiller being seriously considered.
Chiefs have some reservations about the signing of Stiller, and he is not viewed as an alternative to Brighton & Hove Albion's Carlos Baleba, with a move dependent on what happens with Bruno Fernandes and Mainoo.
Should one of Amorim's current midfield options leave, a move for the Stuttgart maestro would gain momentum, and a deal would not break the bank, given that there is a £32m release clause in his contract.
Why Man Utd want to sign "wonderful" Stiller
The 24-year-old may not be as well-known as some of United's other targets, but there are signs he could be an astute addition to Amorim's squad at just £32m, given the level of some of the central midfielder's performances in the Bundesliga.
Scout Ben Mattinson has indicated the German is a well-rounded player, praising him for his "wonderful" left foot, while also stating the Stuttgart star is "secure" defensively and capable of playing as a lone number 6.
VfB Stuttgart's Angelo Stiller celebrates scoring their first goal
VfB Stuttgart's Angelo Stiller celebrates scoring their first goal
Moreover, the Munich-born maestro is clearly an attack-minded player, as showcased by his tendency to play the ball forward and set up goals over the past year.
Statistic Average per 90
Progressive passes 9.75 (98th percentile)
Assists 0.21 (90th percentile)
Shot-creating actions 3.93 (92nd percentile)
Stiller could excel at Old Trafford, but Man United should not sell Mainoo to create space in the squad, as the England interantional deserves another chance to prove himself.