Manchester United eyes midfield gem Angelo Stiller, whose release clause is active. Can he bolster the squad and fill a crucial gap?
Manchester United are in the market for at least one new midfielder to replace the veteran midfielder, Casemiro, who announced his departure come the end of the season with his four seasons at the club coming to an end.
It is also assumed that fellow South American Manuel Ugarte will also leave Old Trafford after an underwhelming spell since his £42 million move from PSG.
With a Champions League spot almost confirmed, Michael Carrick's side will be desperate to reinforce the midfield, providing the sufficient depth to balance two games per week next season.
With names like Carlos Baleba and Elliot Anderson demanding huge pricetags, VfB Stuttgart sensation Angelo Stiller has entered United's vision, with a tempting release clause available.
Man United Interested In £32m Release Clause For Angelo Stiller
According to reports from Tuttosport, Angelo Stiller's £32 million release clause has come into action this season, catching the eye of Man United and Juventus.
Real Madrid also had their heads turned by Stiller, viewing him as a Toni Kroos replacement last season, however Stuttgart's initial asking price was set at £52 million.
It is reported that Man United hold a "strong interest" in the 25-year-old, who has demonstrated his elite ability on the ball often conducting play in the Bundesliga.
The report reveals that United view him as just under Sandro Tonali andCarlos Baleba in their priority.
However, Stuttgart can bypass the release clause by paying Stiller a £1.73 million penalty.
With Man United having far more financial capability than Juventus, they have the upper hand in the race to securing a move for Stiller, and a place in the Champions League looks more likely for the Red Devils as Juve continue to battle with Como and Roma in Serie A for a top four finish.
Would Stiller Be Enough?
Whilst Stiller dominates on the ball with his playmaking ability, his game shows more similarities to Bruno Fernandes rather than Casemiro. Therefore, United may need to continue their midfield search even if they bring in Stiller.
Where Casemiro dominates defensively and in the air, that side of Stiller's game still lacks. United would likely still require that physical presence who wins possession and can also provide the aerial threat to the same standard of Casemiro, who has scored eight headed goals in the Premier League this season.
More physical profiles such as Amadou Onana or Aurelien Tchouameni may have the preferred stature to fill Casemiro's boots.
Overall, squad depth will be an integral factor if United want to have any success across the four club competitions next season. Stiller could be a crucial rotational option competing with and learning from Fernandes who is in the form of his life, targeting the assist record in the Premier League.
United's attention turns towards Liverpool, who make the trip to Old Trafford on Sunday with the intention of putting United's Champions League spot on hold.