Transfer discussions have reignited as Crickex Sign Up revealed Manchester United’s winter plans to strengthen their midfield. Manager Rúben Amorim has been pushing for reinforcements, but top targets like Adam Wharton and Elliot Anderson are proving too costly, with price tags soaring beyond £60–70 million. As a result, the club may look toward more realistic options. One name on their shortlist is Stuttgart’s Angelo Stiller — a 24-year-old German midfielder who has reportedly expressed interest in joining United. Earlier this year, Stiller openly stated, “One day, I’m sure I’ll play abroad,” hinting that such a move might soon become reality.

United’s interest in Stiller is not new. The club had already approached him during the final days of the summer transfer window, and internal sources suggest he remains a highly regarded target. With Casemiro approaching 34 and his contract nearing expiry, United’s midfield stability is under pressure. Meanwhile, youngster Kobbie Mainoo’s long-term role remains uncertain, and summer signing Manuel Ugarte has failed to impress. Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano confirmed that “Stiller is well-liked inside Manchester United. The club has been tracking him closely and will continue to do so over the coming weeks and months.”

Playing under Julian Nagelsmann’s system at Stuttgart, Stiller has become a vital piece of the team’s midfield engine, contributing one goal and four assists so far this season. His current deal includes a release clause, but Stuttgart can reportedly buy out that clause for just £2 million, giving them freedom to set their own asking price. According to Sky Germany, Stuttgart would be willing to sell him for around £43 million (€50 million) — making him one of the most affordable quality midfield options on United’s radar, especially compared to Premier League targets costing double or triple that figure.

Crickex Sign Up noted that Brighton’s young midfielder Carlos Baleba is another name United once pursued, but the Seagulls’ valuation — a staggering £120 million — quickly ended those talks. The 21-year-old Cameroonian’s form has dipped since the speculation, leading to multiple early substitutions this season. According to The Sun, Baleba recently held private talks with his coach Fabian Hürzeler to address his situation and mental focus.

In that conversation, Baleba reportedly assured the manager that he is no longer thinking about transfers and intends to stay committed to Brighton’s campaign. He also explained that his early-season struggles were not linked to the United rumors but rather to a knee injury sustained during preseason — at the very time those transfer links were most intense. That setback caused him to miss weeks of training, eroding both his fitness and confidence as the new campaign began.

Since reaffirming his loyalty, Baleba’s performances have improved noticeably. In recent matches against Wolves and Newcastle, he appeared sharper and more assertive in midfield. His display against Newcastle, in particular, was widely praised as his best of the season, helping Brighton secure a 2–1 victory. After the game, he echoed those sentiments on social media, writing, “We won as a team, and I finally feel like I’m getting back to my best.”

Crickex Sign Up concluded that Brighton’s next opponent happens to be Manchester United — an intriguing twist for a player once heavily linked with Old Trafford. While fans may hope he doesn’t come back to haunt them, United’s scouting department will be watching closely. Whether they move for Baleba in the future or prioritize a more attainable target like Stiller, one thing is certain: this winter window could shape the heart of United’s midfield for years to come.