Rio Ferdinand has issued a direct plea to Real Madrid midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni, urging him to make Manchester United his next destination. The former United defender insisted there is "only one club" for the 26-year-old French international, who has been a long-term target for Michael Carrick's side.
Ferdinand's Public Appeal
Speaking on his show Rio Presents, Ferdinand said: "If Tchouameni has half a sniff of getting out of that club, Man United have to be the first team at their door knocking and make sure he can't even talk to anybody else. Get him signed, sealed, delivered. Tchouameni? I know we've had a few conversations in private but man, I know you watch the show, I'm looking down the lens right now at you. Behind these shades, there is only one club for you man."
Ferdinand added: "If you are looking to leave Real Madrid, we are the club, Man United are the club. If you want to make it happen, make the call, that's what I'd do." Co-host Joel Beya jokingly suggested Arsenal as an alternative, prompting Ferdinand to retort: "You don't want to go to Arsenal, you don't need them. He don't want to go to you lot."
Transfer Window Opens
Reports from SportItalia indicate that Madrid are willing to let Tchouameni depart, though the player is determined to stay with the La Liga heavyweights. However, Madrid's reported interest in Chelsea's Enzo Fernandes could work in United's favour, with The Athletic suggesting it may create an opportunity for them to land Tchouameni's signature. The France international's hefty £210,000-a-week wages in Spain could prove a significant stumbling block.
Transfermarkt values Tchouameni at approximately £60 million, but this valuation could increase substantially should United submit a formal bid for the Champions League winner. Tchouameni could follow the path of former team-mate Casemiro, who signed for United and proceeded to claim two domestic trophies during his spell.
Other Midfield Targets
Tchouameni isn't the sole midfielder United are monitoring this summer. Mateus Fernandes has surfaced as a target once more, with the player appearing set to exit West Ham this summer. Atalanta's Ederson virtually confirmed his switch to Old Trafford was finalised after declaring that it is "almost all sorted." United reached an agreement earlier this month to bring in the midfielder for an initial £35 million plus £3.8 million in performance-related bonuses.
