Fabrizio Romano rejects Real Madrid link to Bundesliga star

Real Madrid opted against bringing in a defensive midfielder in the summer transfer window as Xabi Alonso looks to keep his options open.

Los Blancos focused on rebuilding their defence as Trent Alexander-Arnold, Dean Huijsen and Alvaro Carreras all landed in the Spanish capital.

Franco Mastantunono joined in August from River Plate but that was the end of Alonso’s meaningful business.

Alonso opted against selling Dani Ceballos as he looks to balance against injury concerns for Jude Bellingham and Eduardo Camavinga.

Those injuries have placed even greater strain on Aurelien Tchouameni and Fede Valverde as Alonso delays a midfield decision until 2026.

One rumoured target in the final days of the summer window was reportedly VfB Stuttgart star Angelo Stiller as part of a long-term midfield refit in Madrid.

Toni Kroos’ retirement in 2024, and Luka Modric’s exit after the FIFA Club World Cup, has left major holes in Alonso’s engine room.

The tactical reshuffle from Alonso – aimed at better utilising Kylan Mbappe and Vinicius Junior – means the central pairing need real stamina to drive the team.

Stiller has emerged as a star in the Bundesliga, and had been viewed as a possible option, following Martin Zubimendi’s move to Arsenal from Real Sociedad.

With his transfer value rising to around €50m, VfB Stuttgart acted quickly to extend his contract at the start of 2025, with fresh deal until 2028.

The club’s rumoured stance over blocking a move has now been backed up by transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, who claims no offer was considered by the player.

“Angelo Stiller was never close to leaving Stuttgart this summer.

“Real Madrid never agreed personal terms with Stiller, nor did Man United start any last minute talks to sign him, despite reports.

“But, he is still open to a move in future.”

Real Madrid could revisit the situation in 2026 with Stiller landing in the 2024/25 Bundesliga Top 10 for successful take-ons, touches in possession, through balls and passes into the final third.