Arsenal’s midfield department could be set for another high-profile addition, with reports suggesting the Gunners are leading the chase for Stuttgart star Angelo Stiller — moving ahead of Manchester United and potentially fending off Liverpool interest in the process.

United stumble, Arsenal step up

United had attempted to activate a £27.8m release clause in Stiller’s contract, but their efforts came unstuck due to strict timing conditions.

To make matters worse for Erik ten Hag’s side, the 24-year-old had little appetite for a move to Old Trafford, despite what were described as ‘secret talks’.

That opened the door for Arsenal, who are said to be willing to meet Stuttgart’s £52m valuation.

Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich — Stiller’s former youth club — are also monitoring developments, but the midfielder is reportedly attracted to Mikel Arteta’s project.

Why Angelo Stiller fits Arteta’s blueprint

Stiller is not the most defensively dominant midfielder, but his passing and progression numbers are among the best in Europe.

Over the last year, he has averaged 9.72 progressive passes per match, placing him in the top two percent of midfielders across Europe’s top five leagues.

He also delivers close to nine passes into the final third per game, showing his effectiveness in breaking lines.

On top of that, the German international ranks in the 98th percentile for shot-creating actions, with 3.88 per game.

These qualities would complement Arsenal’s midfield trio of Declan Rice, Martin Zubimendi, and Martin Ødegaard, while also offering tactical flexibility for Arteta.

Midfield puzzle at the Emirates

Arteta already boasts depth, with Mikel Merino, Ethan Nwaneri, and Christian Nørgaard in reserve.

Merino, in particular, has made headlines recently with a hat-trick for Spain against Turkey in World Cup qualifying, but long-term questions remain over his role, especially as he edges closer to 30.

Stiller, by contrast, represents a younger, long-term investment who could seamlessly slot into Arteta’s system. His creativity and ball progression would give Arsenal another dimension, particularly in matches where they need to unlock stubborn defences.

Liverpool lurking

Liverpool may yet enter the equation, depending on what happens with Wataru Endo and Stefan Bajcetic.

Jurgen Klopp’s side previously admired Stiller, and their need for midfield reinforcements could put them back in the race.

For now, though, Arsenal appear to be in the strongest position — a reflection of the club’s growing appeal to top European talents who want to be part of a project that balances youth with ambition.