Manchester United have signed two new midfielders by mid-July, giving them breathing room for a third addition. Andrey Santos has already featured in pre-season, while Youri Tielemans is expected to join his new teammates soon.
The identity of that third signing remains uncertain. United are likely priced out of a move for Alex Scott and are not desperate for a marquee signing in that position. Recent indications point to a deal in a similar price range to Tielemans (£35 million) and Santos (£50 million).
Potential for Tchouameni
United have kept their stance open on Aurelien Tchouameni, despite stepping away from other midfield targets. No attempt has been made to sign him from Real Madrid, but if the Spanish giants decide to sell, United are expected to be at the front of the queue.
The issue has always been whether Real Madrid would sell. The trail seemed to go cold when Tchouameni signed a new five-year deal at the Bernabeu two weeks ago. Jose Mourinho has made clear he wants to keep the 26-year-old, and Real's statement denying interest in Chelsea's Enzo Fernandez reinforced the idea that the midfield would remain unchanged.
Rodri Factor
Rodri, who won the Golden Ball at the World Cup, has expressed admiration for Real Madrid. With a year left on his Manchester City deal, there have been noises about a move to the Spanish capital. City have offered the 30-year-old a new contract, but it remains unsigned. He is set to have surgery on a minor issue.
Real Madrid president Florentino Perez would love to sign Rodri, but could also get him for free next summer if he does not extend his stay. If Real make a move this summer and Rodri pushes for the transfer, a midfield sale at the Bernabeu could follow. Tchouameni is considered the most likely to bring in a good fee, even if Real might prefer to sell Eduardo Camavinga.
United have made a good start on their midfield rebuild. As it stands, a deal for Tchouameni remains unlikely, but there is a scenario where dominoes could fall this summer to put it back on the table.
