Manchester United have identified Real Madrid midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni as their “dream midfield target” this summer, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano. However, securing his signature will be difficult due to two significant hurdles.
The Red Devils are prioritizing a midfield overhaul following the departures of Casemiro and with Manuel Ugarte not joining the club. Reports suggest United could add as many as three midfielders ahead of their return to the Champions League, alongside strengthening in other areas of the squad.
Tchouameni has frequently been mentioned as a potential statement signing to bolster United’s midfield options, alongside names like Carlos Baleba, Elliot Anderson, and Sandro Tonali. While Anderson had been considered a leading target, Manchester City have reportedly ‘agreed terms’ with the Nottingham Forest player and are prepared to make a record bid.
Romano stated that United internally view Tchouameni as their ideal midfield addition, believing he could provide a similar impact to Casemiro. Despite this, Real Madrid are currently unwilling to let the French international leave, and his substantial salary presents a further complication.
“Real Madrid, at the moment, the doors are still closed for Aurelien Tchouameni,” Romano said on his YouTube channel. “He’s on a big salary, so it’s a really, really difficult deal, really complicated.”
Alongside the pursuit of Tchouameni, United are reportedly close to securing another midfield signing. Terms have been ‘agreed’ with Atalanta’s Ederson Silva, who is prioritizing a move to Old Trafford after interest from Atletico Madrid, who are now pursuing Wolves’ Joao Gomes.
Romano added, “Ederson is waiting for Manchester United. There is an agreement already in place between Ederson and Manchester United in terms of personal terms. Ederson will be more than happy to join Manchester United.” United have held face-to-face talks with Atalanta to progress the deal.
Tchouameni, who joined Real Madrid in 2022 from Monaco, has become a key player in Carlo Ancelotti’s squad, though injuries have hampered his consistency. A move to Manchester United would offer him a prominent role in a rebuilding midfield. Securing either Tchouameni or Ederson would represent a significant step in strengthening United’s options ahead of the new season, and potentially set the tone for further additions.
