Real Madrid have confirmed that Aurelien Tchouameni has undergone a medical upon returning for pre-season, as Manchester United's hopes of a blockbuster transfer end.
The France international is back in the Spanish capital following his three-week post-World Cup break. Les Bleus lost to England in the third-place play-off to leave the tournament empty-handed.
United's Dream Signing Slips Away
Tchouameni had reportedly been identified as a dream signing for Man Utd this summer, with head coach Michael Carrick desperate to bolster his midfield ranks.
Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans have arrived for a combined £90million, but a serious injury to Manuel Ugarte, along with Casemiro's exit, means Carrick is still light in the middle of the park.
According to reports, United explored a deal for Tchouameni near the end of last season, and remained hopeful a deal could be in the offing until recently.
Real Madrid's Stance
Reports had suggested that Real Madrid could consider selling a high-profile player to help fund new manager Jose Mourinho's heavy recruitment drive, which prompted renewed speculation over Tchouameni's future.
But, as Tchouameni returns for pre-season, Fabrizio Romano reports that the France star is expected to remain at Real Madrid.
The 26-year-old has already agreed a new five-year contract with the Spanish giants, which effectively ended United's hopes of bringing the midfielder to Old Trafford.
The journalist also revealed that Tchouameni remains fully committed to Real Madrid's project and is expected to play an important role under Mourinho.
Pre-Season Begins
Tchouameni, along with the likes of France team-mate Kylian Mbappe and England star Jude Bellingham, reported to the club's Ciudad Real Madrid training complex on Monday for their first day of pre-season.
As seen above, Real Madrid posted a photo of Tchouameni undergoing a "medical" as he was put through his pace after three weeks off.
