Manchester United have received a double boost in their midfield transfer pursuit. The club has reportedly secured approval for an £85 million move for Real Madrid's Aurelien Tchouameni, while Bournemouth's Alex Scott has turned down contract offers from the Cherries, signaling his desire to move to Old Trafford.
£85m approval for Tchouameni
United are believed to have established contact regarding a potential switch for French midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni, who carries a reported price tag of £85 million. Former AC Milan and Chelsea defender Marcel Desailly has encouraged his compatriot to make the move, describing him as a 'perfect' leader for United's midfield.
'I'm sure Aurelien Tchouameni would move to the Premier League, and Manchester United is still a massive club; a massive name,' Desailly said. 'He had a difficult season, but at least he shows leadership. That's why when you talk about Ibrahima Konate or Tchouameni, I'll always choose Tchouameni because of his desire.'
Desailly added: '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 Raphael 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.'
Alex Scott rejects contract offers
United's search for a marquee midfield signing has experienced several turns this summer. After failing to land Mateus Fernandes, who joined Tottenham for £85 million, the club has turned its attention to Alex Scott. According to The Athletic, Scott has turned down several contract offers from Bournemouth, indicating his desire to join United. The 21-year-old's current deal runs until 2028, and previous reports have suggested he would welcome a move to Old Trafford.
Midfield rebuild on track
With Champions League football secured after a third-placed Premier League finish, United manager Michael Carrick is prioritizing midfield reinforcements. The club is expected to complete the signing of Ederson from Atalanta shortly, but a second midfield acquisition remains a top priority, with Scott understood to be the preferred target. The £85 million approval for Tchouameni provides additional options as United look to strengthen ahead of next season.
