Manchester United's already slim chances of signing Aurelien Tchouameni this summer could be scuppered if Real Madrid miss out on Rodri.
Rodri competition intensifies
Real have been keen to sign the Spain captain from Manchester City, but they now face competition from Barcelona for the 30-year-old, who has a year remaining on his contract at the Etihad.
While a new deal is on the table for Rodri, he has previously made it clear that he is open to a return to Spain, and although it's Real who have often been considered to be leading the chase, Barcelona are now pushing for his signature.
Knock-on effect for United
That could have a knock-on effect for United, who made their interest in Tchouameni clear back in April. A deal for the France international looks unlikely and if Real don't sign Rodri as a potential replacement, the chances of landing him would recede even further.
Real have so far shown no willingness to sell the 26-year-old, who has agreed terms on a new five-year deal at the Bernabéu, although the lack of official confirmation of a contract extension has added to the intrigue surrounding his situation.
Transfer prospects
There is a theory that Tchouameni could be made available if Real sign Rodri and United have made it clear they would be interested, although any transfer would still depend on the size of the fee and salary expectations.
United officials are continuing to debate the merits of a third midfield signing after spending £85million on Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans last month. The form of Mason Mount in pre-season has been a bonus and with Kobbie Mainoo returning next week, Michael Carrick has four senior midfielders for two positions.
Tchouameni would be considered a game-changing signing as a midfielder at the top of his game and with high-level club and international experience, but if he's not available, United are unlikely to break the bank for another midfielder.
Instead, if they decide to press ahead with a third signing in that area of the pitch and look away from the Real Madrid man, it is likely to be for another mid-range fee.
