As Xabi Alonso prepares to take the reins at Real Madrid, the excitement among fans continues to grow. The former midfield maestro and current managerial sensation is widely expected to usher in a new era at the Santiago Bernabéu — one built on tactical discipline, youth development, and strategic squad building. And it seems Alonso is wasting no time in shaping his vision.
According to reports from Spain, Alonso has already submitted his first major transfer request to club president Florentino Pérez. Surprisingly, the target is not one of the usual suspects linked to Real Madrid in recent months, such as Martín Zubimendi or Florian Wirtz. Instead, Alonso has set his sights on Angelo Stiller, the highly-rated central midfielder currently starring for VfB Stuttgart in the Bundesliga.
Angelo Stiller: The Bundesliga Breakout Star
Stiller, 23, has quietly developed into one of the most reliable and technically gifted midfielders in Germany. After a standout 2024/25 season with Stuttgart, his stock has risen rapidly among Europe’s top clubs. The German midfielder played over 3,800 minutes across 46 matches, recording 13 goal contributions and becoming a vital cog in Stuttgart’s top-four finish.
Known for his composure on the ball, progressive passing, and tactical intelligence, Stiller fits the mold of the kind of player Alonso appreciates — a deep-lying playmaker capable of controlling the tempo and linking defense with attack seamlessly. His work rate and football IQ have also made him a favorite among Bundesliga analysts and scouts.
A Strategic and Affordable Move
What makes the move particularly appealing for Real Madrid is Stiller’s market value. Despite his stellar season, his price tag is reported to be around €40 million, a relatively modest fee compared to some of the inflated figures in today’s market. That makes him a financially prudent option for a squad that may undergo further restructuring under Alonso’s guidance.
Real Madrid’s management is reportedly accelerating talks with Stuttgart, aiming to secure the midfielder before the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. The idea is to have Stiller fully integrated into the squad in time for the prestigious tournament, giving Alonso the chance to test and mold his new addition early in the season.
A Signing with Long-Term Value
While players like Zubimendi, Wirtz, or even Bruno Guimarães have been frequently linked with a Madrid move, Alonso’s push for Stiller indicates a desire to bring in a player who not only complements his tactical ideas but also fits the club’s long-term vision. Stiller’s versatility, discipline, and experience in a competitive league make him an ideal candidate for a transitional yet ambitious Real Madrid squad.
Alonso knows firsthand what it takes to dominate midfield battles in La Liga and Europe. His insistence on Stiller suggests he sees the young German as someone who can grow into a crucial role at the club — much like Alonso himself once did under José Mourinho and Carlo Ancelotti.
Final Decision Rests with Management.
While Alonso’s recommendation carries significant weight, the final call will rest with Real Madrid’s sporting hierarchy. However, if past precedent is anything to go by, the club is likely to back their new manager’s judgment, especially in the early stages of his tenure.
If the deal materializes, Angelo Stiller could become one of the more intriguing and underrated transfers of the summer — a player not on many fans’ radar but potentially pivotal in the next chapter of Real Madrid’s midfield evolution.
