Manchester United are reportedly expected to make contact with Real Madrid for Aurelien Tchouameni in the coming days. The France international is one of many midfielders linked to an Old Trafford switch, with the Spanish giants potentially needing a significant sale this summer.
Real Madrid's summer spending spree forces potential exits
Following the arrival of Jose Mourinho, Real have also brought in Marc Cucurella, Ibrahima Konate, Denzel Dumfries and Bernardo Silva. Though three of those were signed as free agents, the quartet will almost certainly be on significant wages, prompting the need for first-team exits.
Eduardo Camavinga looked set to be the player sacrificed, but parting ways with Tchouameni now appears as an option, but only if their lofty asking price is met. According to Spanish outlet Diario AS, departures will only be sanctioned if a deal reaches €100million (£85m).
United directors ready to pay big for Tchouameni
The report also states that United directors are prepared to stump up a lot of money to sign Tchouameni, with first contacts regarding a potential deal set to arrive later this week. Tchouameni is currently away at the World Cup with France, but he missed their latest victory over Paraguay with a minor injury.
United have already negotiated a deal for one midfielder, with Ederson still set to join from Atalanta despite claims that the move had collapsed. Following Brazil's elimination from the World Cup, the final details of his £38m transfer will likely be resolved soon, with the midfielder's medical set to take place.
Carrick wants second midfield addition after missing top targets
A second addition in the engine room is wanted by Michael Carrick and Co., but their two top targets have headed elsewhere. Manchester United have already missed out on the signings of Elliot Anderson and Mateus Fernandes. Manchester City smashed the transfer record for a British player by agreeing to sign Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest for £116m, while Mateus Fernandes opted for an £85m move to Tottenham.
Tchouameni and Alex Scott appear to be the next names on their shortlist, but both deals appear complex. Real still have yet to decide on the former's future, while Arsenal are in the race for the Bournemouth star. His club team-mate Tyler Adams has also been linked, but interest has cooled in Carlos Baleba of Brighton, with Crystal Palace's Adam Wharton also not on the club's radar.
