Report: Liverpool join four-way race to sign £35m-rated midfield star
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Liverpool have joined a competitive race to sign VfB Stuttgart midfielder Angelo Stiller, alongside Premier League rivals Arsenal and Manchester United, as well as other top European clubs, including interest from Real Madrid and Bayern Munich.
The 24-year-old German midfielder, who came through Bayern Munich’s academy before establishing himself at Stuttgart, is highly rated for his metronomic passing, tactical intelligence, and composure in midfield. He is considered one of Europe’s hottest prospects and has attracted significant attention due to his playing style fitting several top clubs’ systems—Arsenal’s possession-based approach under Mikel Arteta and Liverpool’s high-pressing style under Arne Slot.
Stiller is under contract with Stuttgart until 2027 and has a release clause valued at around £35 million (€40 million), which will become active in 2026. However, Stuttgart holds the option to buy out this clause for a much smaller fee of approximately £1.7 million (€2 million), which could complicate potential transfers. While a move in the January 2026 transfer window is not ruled out, it is regarded as more likely that a transfer would occur in the summer of 2026, allowing clubs time to prepare offers.
Liverpool, who have focused on midfield reinforcements since Arne Slot’s appointment last season, view Stiller as a potential long-term addition to their midfield engine room, complementing their current squad’s style. Arsenal also see him as a perfect fit to partner key midfielders like Martin Zubimendi or Declan Rice. Manchester United made a late summer offer, which was rejected by Stuttgart.
Additionally, Real Madrid and Bayern Munich have been linked with the player, with Real Madrid's Xabi Alonso reportedly monitoring the situation, anticipating a possible bid near €45 million. This widespread interest underscores Stiller’s rising stature in European football.
PP