Manchester United are prepared to submit an offer for Real Madrid midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni if the Spanish club signals a willingness to sell the 26-year-old this summer, according to reports. The Premier League side have been searching for a central midfielder after agreeing a £35 million deal with Atalanta for Ederson earlier in the transfer window.
Missed targets prompt alternative search
United had previously targeted Mateus Fernandes and Sandro Tonali, but both players have joined Tottenham Hotspur, leaving the club to explore other options. Tchouameni has been on United's shortlist for some time, but earlier this year there was no indication that Real Madrid would part with the France international.
However, the landscape has shifted. Real Madrid are now understood to be open to a major sale in midfield to finance a squad rebuild under manager Jose Mourinho. According to The Athletic, United have held talks to determine Madrid's stance on selling Tchouameni before the end of the summer transfer window.
Contract situation and valuation
Tchouameni joined Madrid from Monaco in 2022 in a deal worth €80 million (£68.3 million) plus €20 million (£17 million) in add-ons. He still has two years remaining on his contract with the Spanish club. United are reportedly willing to pay around £85 million for the midfielder if he is made available.
In addition to Tchouameni, United have also held discussions with Chelsea over a deal for Brazilian midfielder Andrey Santos. Chelsea value Santos at £50 million, a price United are not prepared to meet. United also retain an interest in Alex Scott, but Bournemouth have insisted that the 22-year-old is not for sale.
