Manchester United are now prioritizing a move for Real Madrid’s Aurelien Tchouameni after missing out on several other central midfield targets, according to reports from the Manchester Evening News and The Daily Mail. The club had previously identified Elliot Anderson, Mateus Fernandes, and Sandro Tonali as potential signings, but were unsuccessful in securing deals for any of the three players.
Anderson ultimately joined Manchester City for a reported £116 million, a fee United were unwilling to match. West Ham United’s Fernandes moved to Tottenham Hotspur due to United’s hesitation over his £85 million price tag, and Tonali also ended up at Spurs, with an initial fee of £92.5 million plus potential add-ons. United have already agreed a £35 million deal for Atalanta’s Ederson, but are seeking further reinforcement in midfield.
Tchouameni has emerged as a ‘dream target’ for the club, with United having admired the Frenchman for a number of years. The club are reportedly hopeful that Tchouameni may be available this summer as Jose Mourinho looks to reshape the Real Madrid midfield. However, sources at Madrid have indicated that the club are reluctant to sell the 26-year-old.
While Tchouameni is the primary focus, United are also considering a move for Bournemouth’s Alex Scott. Other previously considered targets, including Brighton’s Carlos Baleba and Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton, are no longer actively being pursued. Baleba’s price tag, initially quoted at £100 million, has reportedly fallen to around £80 million, but concerns over his recent form have cooled United’s interest. Wharton, meanwhile, is considered too similar to existing midfielder Kobbie Mainoo.
Tchouameni is reportedly valued at £70 million by Real Madrid, though The Daily Mail reports that Madrid’s asking price may be higher. There are also disagreements between Fabrizio Romano and Ben Jacobs regarding United’s ability to match the player’s wage demands. Securing Tchouameni would provide United with a world-class defensive midfielder, potentially solidifying their midfield for years to come. The pursuit highlights the new ownership’s ambition to bring in top talent.
United have also reportedly opened talks with the agent of an unnamed Premier League forward, indicating further activity in the transfer market.
