Xabi Alonso keen for Real Madrid to sign 24-year-old next summer | OneFootball

The 2025 summer transfer window only closed 10 days ago, but Real Madrid officials are already thinking about 2026. And one of them is Xabi Alonso, who is eyeing up a key addition to his squad.

During the summer, there was a lot of speculation regarding Real Madrid’s desire to add to “controller” to their midfield options, given that a replacement has not been brought in for Toni Kroos since his departure in 2024. The likes of Rodri Hernandez and Adam Wharton have been linked, but Alonso has his sights set on a different target.

Early on in the summer, it was reported that Real Madrid had taken notice of Stuttgart’s Angelo Stiller, who was recommended by Kroos himself. Alonso is a big fan of the 24-year-old, and according to Sport, he will insist that a deal is done in 2026.

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It is very possible that Real Madrid lose Dani Ceballos next summer, given that he also departed during the recent transfer window. And if he goes, a replacement would be needed – and if Alonso has his way, that man could be Stiller.

Stiller deal could depend on form throughout 2025-26 season

Real Madrid had no intention of signing Stiller in 2025, as was recently confirmed by Fabrizio Romano. However, they could make a move next summer when his value would be lower, although any deal being done could depend on whether his form over the course of the season attracts strong interest from Premier League clubs, according to Sport’s report.

Stiller is a player that Alonso would have watched closely during his time managing in Germany, so it is no surprise that he is a fan. However, there is every chance that Real Madrid choose to go in a different direction with someone like Rodri, who could also be available for a reduced price, or Wharton.