Rio Ferdinand has sent a direct message to Real Madrid midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni, insisting that Manchester United is the only club he should consider if he leaves the Spanish giants. The former United defender made his feelings clear during an episode of his podcast, Rio Presents, urging the club to act decisively.
Ferdinand's Plea to Tchouameni
Speaking on the show, Ferdinand said: "If Tchouameni has half a sniff of getting out of that club, Man United have to be the first team at their door knocking and make sure he can't even talk to anybody else. Get him signed, sealed, delivered." He added, looking directly at the camera: "I know you watch the show, I'm looking down the lens right now at you. Behind these shades, there is only one club for you man. If you are looking to leave Real Madrid, we are the club, Man United are the club."
Co-host Joel Beya jokingly suggested Arsenal as an alternative, but Ferdinand quickly dismissed the idea, saying: "You don't want to go to Arsenal, you don't need them."
Transfer Background
Tchouameni, 26, has been a long-term target for United manager Michael Carrick. Reports from The Athletic indicate that Real Madrid's interest in Chelsea's Enzo Fernandez could open the door for United to sign the France international. However, his wages of £210,000 per week may be a stumbling block.
According to SportItalia, Madrid are open to letting Tchouameni leave, though the player is keen to stay. He is valued at around £60 million by Transfermarkt, but that price could rise if United make a concrete offer for the Champions League winner.
Other Midfield Targets
Tchouameni is not the only midfielder on United's radar. Mateus Fernandes is also a target, with the West Ham midfielder expected to depart this summer. Atalanta's Ederson has all but confirmed his move to Old Trafford, stating it is "almost all sorted." United agreed a deal earlier this month for an initial £35 million plus £3.8 million in add-ons.
Ferdinand compared a potential Tchouameni move to Casemiro's transfer from Madrid to United, which yielded two domestic cups. He concluded: "Man United are waiting."
