Real Madrid are open to selling Aurelien Tchouameni, a major boost to Manchester United's chances of signing the midfielder. Tchouameni, 26, recently returned from helping France reach the World Cup semi-finals, but his club future has been a topic of discussion throughout the tournament.
United have a long-standing interest in Tchouameni, who Real boss Jose Mourinho initially planned to keep after returning to the Bernabeu this summer. However, according to the Sun, Real are now prepared to let the midfielder go at the right price. The La Liga giants have been linked with a big-money move for Manchester City's Rodri and may need to raise funds.
United's midfield revamp
United's interest has ramped up since the World Cup ended, with Tchouameni under contract until 2028. Reports in Spain earlier this month suggested Tchouameni had agreed a new five-year deal, but this has not been confirmed. United have already signed two midfielders this summer, paying a combined £85m for Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos. However, with Manuel Ugarte expected to miss most of the season due to a serious knee injury, the Red Devils want a third midfielder.
Their search for a specialist defensive midfielder has led them to Tchouameni, whose experience includes starting the 2022 World Cup final and winning the Champions League in 2024. The former Monaco star also fits United's preferred age range for signings, between 22 and 26.
Real Madrid's Rodri pursuit
Real's pursuit of Rodri could be a double boost for United, as local rivals City would lose one of their best players. However, Real could wait until Rodri's contract expires next summer and sign him on a free transfer. Former Real midfielder Claude Makelele has warned the club not to sell Tchouameni, telling DAZN: "He was the only player who performed consistently from start to finish. Mourinho isn't a fool; he's a good manager, one of the best managers. He knows he's going to need a strong squad to be able to win La Liga."
