Key Takeaways
- Manchester United have put Real Madrid’s Aurélien Tchouaméni back on their summer shortlist.
- United want a new centre-midfielder after strengthening attack and goalkeeping areas last year.
- Real Madrid may listen to offers if a big fee is tabled following a trophy-less season.
Manchester United are again looking at France international Aurélien Tchouaméni as they plan a midfield overhaul at the end of the season.
Last summer the club spent heavily on forwards and a new goalkeeper. Now head coach Erik ten Hag and recruitment staff have agreed the engine room is the next area to fix.
Scouts have watched several Premier League players, including Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson, Brighton’s Carlos Baleba and Crystal Palace youngster Adam Wharton. Yet Wharton’s style is seen as too similar to rising star Kobbie Mainoo, who is close to signing a long-term deal.
Because of that, United have widened the search abroad. Tchouaméni, 26, has been flagged as a serious option.
The midfielder still has three years left on his Bernabéu contract and Real Madrid hope to extend it. However, a poor season without silverware could force the Spanish giants to cash in if an irresistible bid arrives.
United tried to sign Tchouaméni when he left Monaco in 2022, but the player chose Madrid where he has become a key starter.
Off the pitch, United expect to free up salary space. Casemiro and Jadon Sancho are likely to leave, while Barcelona must decide by 15 June whether to activate a €30 million clause for Marcus Rashford.
On the pitch, Monday’s 2-1 win over Brentford leaves United one positive result from their last four matches away from securing a Champions League place.
