Arsenal set to beat Man United in the race for Bundesliga midfielder

Arsenal are reportedly leading the chase for Stuttgart midfielder Angelo Stiller after Manchester United’s late efforts to secure the player in the summer window were rejected. The 24-year-old, one of the Bundesliga’s standout midfielders, has been linked with several European clubs, but it is the North London side who now appear to hold a clear edge. Credit to the Express for outlining the story.

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United were believed to have tabled a significant bid in the closing hours of the window, even exploring a £27.8m release clause. That attempt failed, with Stuttgart firm in their stance that the clause only applies in specific windows. Any sale in the short term would demand a £52m fee, reflecting the player’s growing reputation.

Stiller’s profile matches the type of player Mikel Arteta continues to target. A midfielder with composure, vision and tactical awareness, he fits the mould of young, intelligent talents that Arsenal have built their squad around. Reports suggest the project at the Emirates has an appeal, offering both development and competitive opportunities.

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Interest in Stiller is not confined to England. Bayern Munich, where he spent over a decade in the academy and senior ranks, are understood to be monitoring his progress. Real Madrid and Barcelona are also credited with informal interest, though financial constraints in Catalonia may complicate any move from Spain.

The timing of any potential Arsenal bid is intriguing. Arteta has already added Martin Zubimendi to his midfield options this summer, raising questions about how much regular football could be offered if Stiller were to arrive. United, by contrast, remain in greater need of a midfield overhaul, which could give them leverage should the chase reignite. For now, though, Arsenal appear to be in pole position, aided by United’s failure to conclude their move.

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Arsenal supporters have watched Arteta reshape the midfield with technical precision, bringing in players who blend intelligence with energy. Stiller fits this profile perfectly. He is 24, experienced in the Bundesliga , and yet still with room to grow.

The fact that Manchester United failed with a last-minute attempt only sweetens the narrative for Arsenal fans. Outmanoeuvring a direct rival in the market always feels significant, especially when the player in question could be central to the long-term midfield balance. United’s desperation highlights how highly rated Stiller has become.

There are, however, concerns. With Zubimendi already in place, Stiller might not get the guaranteed minutes he would need to flourish immediately. Fans want competition, but also worry about depth being added for its own sake. The £52m price tag also represents a gamble, and Arsenal have been burned before on big fees.

Yet for most Arsenal supporters, the prospect of combining Declan Rice, Zubimendi and potentially Stiller is mouth-watering. It would give the team an axis to compete with the very best in Europe. If the club want to keep climbing towards major honours, moving decisively in situations like this feels essential.