Toni Kroos hails Angelo Stiller’s rise as Newcastle eye German midfielder

Newcastle United have added Stuttgart’s Angelo Stiller to their shortlist of midfield targets as Eddie Howe looks to rebuild after Sandro Tonali’s £100 million sale to Tottenham Hotspur.

What’s the link to Toni Kroos?

Stiller, 25, has been compared to Real Madrid legend Toni Kroos for his deep-lying playmaking role. The German midfielder has been touted for a move to a top European club this summer, with reports suggesting he could be a perfect fit for Newcastle’s style under Howe.

Laurie Whitwell of *The Athletic* first reported the interest, noting Stiller’s contract runs until 2028 and that Stuttgart are yet to set a price. The Magpies are operating under strict UEFA financial rules after their recent sales, which complicates negotiations.

Why does this matter for Newcastle?

Tonali’s exit leaves a gap in Newcastle’s midfield, and Stiller’s profile matches the profile Howe wants: a defensive midfielder who dictates play. The 25-year-old has become Stuttgart’s standout performer this season, averaging 85 passes per game and winning 88% of his duels.

But Newcastle aren’t the only club watching. Aston Villa pipped them to Johan Manzambi earlier this summer, while Botafogo’s Danilo, Eintracht Frankfurt’s Hugo Larsson and Auxerre’s Kevin Danois are also in the mix. Uncertainty also looms over Bruno Guimarães, with Arsenal pushing hard for the Brazilian.

Could Stiller land at Newcastle?

A move to Real Madrid was once floated due to the Kroos comparisons, but that now looks off the table. St James’ Park could yet emerge as Stiller’s next destination if Newcastle can agree terms and meet Stuttgart’s valuation.

Howe’s side have already spent big this window, but their transfer chiefs remain active. With Guimarães’ future unclear, two midfield signings could still arrive before the window closes.

Stiller’s rise in Germany has been rapid. He made his senior debut for Bayern Munich II in 2018 before moving to Hoffenheim in 2020. His move to Stuttgart in 2022 has seen him become a first-team regular, earning five caps for Germany’s U21 side along the way.

Newcastle’s pursuit is the latest chapter in a summer of change. After selling Tonali for £100m, they’ve watched rivals poach targets before they could act. Stiller represents a chance to land a player with elite pedigree-and a direct link to one of football’s greatest midfielders.