Real Madrid’s summer transfer window closed without the addition of a new defensive midfielder, as manager Xabi Alonso preferred to wait before making a big decision – www.isagoal.com reports.
The Spanish giants instead invested heavily in defense, bringing in Trent Alexander-Arnold, Dean Huijsen, and Alvaro Carreras to strengthen the backline.
In midfield, Franco Mastantuono arrived from River Plate in August, but Alonso decided against further changes despite injuries to Jude Bellingham and Eduardo Camavinga.
Dani Ceballos also remained at the Bernabeu, with Alonso opting for squad stability as Aurelien Tchouameni and Fede Valverde carried the bulk of midfield responsibilities.
Speculation linked VfB Stuttgart’s Angelo Stiller with a late move, especially after Toni Kroos’ retirement and Luka Modric’s departure following the FIFA Club World Cup.
Stiller’s growing reputation in the Bundesliga, combined with his creativity and high possession stats, made him an attractive target for Madrid’s long-term midfield rebuild.
However, Stuttgart secured his future with a contract extension until 2028, raising his transfer value to around €50 million.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano poured cold water on the rumors, stating: “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.”
He added that while Stiller was not in talks this summer, he remains open to a move in the future.
Madrid may revisit the situation in 2026, as Alonso looks for midfield options capable of complementing Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior in an attacking reshuffle.
This article was updated 3 hours ago