With Toni Kroos retired and Luka Modric leaving an ever-growing gap, Real Madrid have gone all in for a new mastermind in midfield. It's no longer just a wish: it's an absolute priority.
The signings of Huijsen and Alexander-Arnold have been key, but now the focus is on strengthening the organizing midfielder position. That role, for years, was in the hands of legends.
In this surgical search, the name most talked about in Valdebebas is Angelo Stiller. The 24-year-old German has shined this season at Stuttgart. His performance has been so high that, had he not been injured, he would have been an international with Germany in the Nations League.
Stiller, the German bet that threatens Camavinga
Stiller fits the new profile Real Madrid are looking for: young, with potential, but already seasoned at the top level. He has Xabi Alonso's approval and a price that, although high, is within the club's radar.
The German club values him at about €50 million. However, there's a detail that could complicate or speed up the deal. His contract includes a €36 million release clause, but it's only applicable starting in 2026. Stuttgart could cancel it if they pay the player €2 million beforehand, which opens a chess game in which Florentino Pérez is already making moves.
AS newspaper claims Real Madrid haven't started talks with the player or the club yet. Everything depends on another big piece of the puzzle: Rodrygo. His possible departure could free up space and speed up the signing.
But the most striking aspect of this move is its direct impact on the current squad. If Stiller arrives, Eduardo Camavinga would lose ground. The Frenchman, who has never fully settled as a fixed pivot, would be relegated to a secondary role.
Camavinga on the wire
Camavinga has been a wildcard, having played as a full-back, inside midfielder, and central midfielder. In none of those positions has he managed to be undisputed. The signing of a pure pivot like Stiller would be a clear signal: Madrid want tactical stability.
At 21 years old (21 años), Camavinga could be pushed to reconsider his future. The competition with Tchouaméni, Valverde, Bellingham, and a possible Stiller would drastically reduce his minutes.
The locker room is already talking about it and Camavinga knows it. Madrid are moving quietly, but firmly. If Stiller arrives, the message will be clear: the midfield is changing again and not everyone will fit in.