Manchester United have been given the green light by former Chelsea defender Marcel Desailly to pursue a summer move for Real Madrid midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni, as the club's transfer activity intensifies under manager Michael Carrick.
United Officials to Travel to Madrid
According to Spanish outlet Diario AS, Manchester United officials are planning to travel to Madrid to explore a potential deal for the France international. However, Real Madrid have set a minimum asking price of £85 million for any sale this summer, meaning United will need to meet a significant fee to secure his signature.
Tchouameni is reportedly keen to stay in Spain, but recent transfer activity between the two clubs could facilitate the move. Raphael Varane and Casemiro previously made the switch from Madrid to United, paving the way for a similar transition.
Desailly Encourages Move
Speaking to sportscasting.com, Marcel Desailly backed Tchouameni's potential move to the Premier League, drawing parallels with Varane's successful stint at Old Trafford. Desailly said: "I'm sure Aurelien Tchouameni would move to the Premier League, and Manchester United is still a massive club; a massive name."
He added: "He had a difficult season, but at least he shows leadership. That's why when you talk about Konaté or Tchouameni, I'll always choose Tchouameni because of his desire. And he also wears my number 8 on his back, so I love him for this!"
Desailly concluded: "I believe that he has that little bit of leadership and the desire to bring the team all together. So it could be a good move for him, just like when Raphaël Varane swapped Madrid for Manchester back in the day. So why not? I would encourage him to go for it and try the Premier League."
Varane and Casemiro as Examples
Raphael Varane joined United in 2021 for around £41 million, making 95 appearances and winning the Carabao Cup and FA Cup. Casemiro followed a year later, becoming a fan favourite with 160 appearances, 40 goal contributions, and two domestic cups. Both players provide a blueprint for Tchouameni's potential success in the Premier League.
Carrick's Summer Activity
Michael Carrick has already secured the £35 million signing of Atalanta midfielder Ederson this summer and is keen to add more firepower to his squad ahead of his first full season as permanent manager. Tchouameni, 26, could be the next addition, with his departure from Real Madrid potentially opening the door for a move to Old Trafford.
