Manchester United are preparing for a busy summer transfer window under new permanent manager Michael Carrick, with reports indicating club chiefs may fly to Madrid for talks over Real Madrid midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni, while a potential hijack of AC Milan's Rafael Leao has been turned down.
Carrick's First Window
Carrick, who has been handed the role permanently, is navigating his first transfer window as United manager. The club has secured Champions League football for the upcoming season but has yet to make any signings. Atalanta midfielder Ederson was expected to be the first arrival, but his transfer has been delayed due to his World Cup commitments and a lack of a medical.
Tchouameni Talks
Spanish publication Diario AS reports that United are targeting Real Madrid's Aurelien Tchouameni and that club chiefs will soon fly to the Spanish capital to discuss a potential transfer. However, the deal is not expected to be straightforward. The outlet adds that any sales Real Madrid sanction this summer will each exceed £85 million, meaning United would have to pay a hefty fee for the France international.
There is also the potential barrier of the player's own intentions. Tchouameni is currently in North America with the France squad and reportedly wants to remain at the Bernabeu. However, AS points to recent transfer activity between the two clubs that could facilitate a deal. In 2021, Raphael Varane moved from Madrid to Manchester, and a year later, Casemiro did the same. The report claims this good relationship means both clubs remain aligned on transfers.
Leao Hijack Verdict
United are also on the hunt for a new wide player, and reports claim that AC Milan and Portugal star Rafael Leao has been offered to them by his agent. However, The Sun reports that Carrick does not view the player as a target, despite his representatives contacting the club over a possible move. Leao has reportedly expressed willingness to join Tottenham, but Carrick has seemingly turned down the chance to hijack the deal. Saudi Pro League clubs and Barcelona are considered alternative destinations for Leao.
As United prepare for the upcoming season, Carrick's decisions in the transfer market will be crucial to building a squad capable of competing in the Champions League and domestically.
