Under Michael Carrick, Manchester United will sign a midfielder as a priority with the intention of making him a pillar for years to come, reports said. While players who match Carrick's strategies are being considered, the signing will not be a quick-fix but a proper investment with everything considered.
Portugal's Ruben Neves and Germany's Angelo Stiller are the players at the top of the list, as per European football websites. Both these players have been linked to United in recent times, despite a deal never having materialised.
Former Wolverhampton player Neves, who is currently playing for Al-Hilal in Saudi Arabia, is known for anchoring well, apart from possessing an incredible range of passing. VfB Stuttgart's Stiller, meanwhile, is often compared to Toni Kroos due to his ability to operate from ahead of the defensive line—orchestrating the rhythm well.
Stiller or Neves?
If either of them joins the Red Devils, then captain Bruno Fernandes will get to operate with more freedom in his natural position. Bruno operating in deeper positions has cost United in recent times, as he is not the best in the world at tracking back and stopping counter-attacks by nipping them in the bud. His creativity and goal threat are also limited if he is forced to operate deep, an issue that has cost United precious points in the ongoing campaign.
Stiller, 24, was heavily linked to Real Madrid during Xabi Alonso's regime. The Spaniard had taken note of Stiller during his time with Leverkusen and wanted him, reports had said. In January 2025, Stiller extended his contract with Stuttgart by a year, ensuring that he will stay with the Bundesliga club until June 2028. As things stand, Stuttgart will not sell him for less than €50 million, AS claimed. The Bayern Munich academy product is considered one of the finest ball distributors in the Bundesliga, who can effectively operate as a deep-lying playmaker.
Captain Bruno's international teammate Neves is slightly older than Stiller but is well in his prime. His current deal with the Middle East heavyweights will run out at the end of the season, and reports claim that he is looking for a more competitive base with the FIFA World Cup fast approaching. While his name first popped up in United transfer rumours, it was said that Neves' arrival was not likely to derail the former Premier League champions' plans to get Brighton's Carlos Baleba, Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson, or Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton. However, the names of these youngsters didn't feature in the fresh report that named Stiller and Neves as players who are more likely to meet Carrick's demands.