Real Madrid Confidencial Xabi Alonso chooses midfielder for Real Madrid, Florentino doesn't guarantee it
Güler's breakthrough in the Club World Cup has raised doubts about the need for a midfielder
Xabi Alonso has already pointed to a name to strengthen Real Madrid's midfield: Angelo Stiller. The Basque coach considers him the ideal profile to take on the role of organizer after Toni Kroos's retirement. However, the board isn't guaranteeing his arrival.
The 24-year-old German from Stuttgart has been one of the most closely watched players by the sporting management in recent months. His calm style, his ability to distribute, and his reading of the game inevitably remind people of Kroos. He doesn't have the speed of other midfielders, but he knows how to make up for it with tactical intelligence and composure on the ball.
Florentino Pérez and José Ángel Sánchez haven't taken the final step. The club isn't willing to pay the release clause in a single payment, and negotiations have cooled off. For now, everything is on hold.
Güler, an alternative that slows down the operation
One of the reasons keeping Stiller away from Bernabéu is the emergence of Arda Güler. The Turk has convinced Xabi Alonso in the first matches. His performance in playmaking has been so promising that the club believes he could take on that role.
The initial idea was to sign a pure midfielder to lead the ball out from the back. But if Güler keeps developing, the multi-million investment in Stiller could be ruled out.
For now, Real Madrid isn't in a hurry. The start of preseason will set the course. If Güler keeps performing against strong opponents, Florentino could close the door on Stiller for good.
The player, patient and determined
Despite the pause in contacts, Angelo Stiller is still waiting. He has received offers from the Premier League, but he has decided to put them on hold. He wants to play for Real Madrid and is willing to wait all summer.
His performance at Bernabéu during last season's Champions League already left a good impression. His profile is highly appreciated by the coaching staff. But everything will depend on what happens in the coming weeks.
The German is clear about it: if Madrid calls, he'll be ready. The train passes only once, and he doesn't want to miss it.
More posts: