Real Madrid eye summer bid for €50m Stuttgart star Angelo Stiller as new coach Xabi Alonso gives his approval for possible Toni Kroos successor

Madrid are considering a summer move for Stuttgart midfielder Stiller, according to AS. The 24-year-old has emerged as a serious target to fill the void left by the club legend Kroos. With new head coach Alonso approving the potential transfer, Madrid intend to rebuild its midfield, as even Luka Modric will not be there next season. Stuttgart want €50 million (£42m/$57m) for an immediate sale, even though Stiller has a €36m (£30m/$41m) release clause that becomes active in 2026.

Stiller, who impressed in the Bundesliga last season, fits Madrid's profile as a young, technically sound midfielder with top-flight experience. Alonso is familiar with the player from his time in Germany and sees him as a strong, short-to-mid-term solution. Volker Struth, his agent, also worked with Kroos, who is said to have influence in the club's boardroom. Madrid are interested in Stiller but also wants to sign Rodri from Manchester City in 2026. The club are also keeping an eye on Martin Zubimendi, but he is likely to sign with Arsenal.

Stiller joined Stuttgart for just €5.5m in 2023 and could now command a fee nearly 10 times higher. In 32 games in the Bundesliga, the German midfielder scored one goal and provided eight assists. Overall, he played 47 games and managed four goals and 11 assists. Stiller is contracted with Stuttgart till 2028.

Madrid will evaluate their midfield strategy based on upcoming sales and market movements. As there are reported talks with Rodri, a potential long-term plan involving the Spanish international could influence whether they pursue Stiller this summer or wait. A formal offer is yet to be made, but Madrid are closely monitoring the situation with Alonso playing an active role in shaping the club's midfield rebuild. As of now, Madrid will be focused on the upcoming Club World Cup, and their first match will be against Al-Hilal on June 18th.