Manchester United make enquiry for Real Madrid’s Aurelien Tchouameni

By Brian Otieno — 22 July 2026 — 3 min read

Manchester United’s Midfield Pursuit

Manchester United have reportedly reignited their interest in Real Madrid midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni. This development comes despite previous reports suggesting the French international had agreed to new terms with the Spanish club.

The Old Trafford club has made an enquiry about Tchouameni, indicating they are not deterred by earlier reports of a new contract at Real Madrid. A formal announcement regarding a new deal for Tchouameni has not yet been made, which gives United hope of securing a transfer.

United have prioritized strengthening their central midfield this summer, already bringing in two new players for that area. Andrey Santos joined for £50million, and Youri Tielemans was acquired after his £35m release clause was activated. These additions provide United with flexibility, allowing them to observe the market for a third midfield recruit.

The club had previously reached a £38m agreement for midfielder Ederson from Atalanta, but the deal did not proceed after he failed a medical. United have also signed Karl Darlow on a free transfer and secured young winger Tynan Thompson from Tottenham Hotspur.

Tchouameni’s Situation at Real Madrid

The possibility of Tchouameni moving to Manchester United has been discussed by journalists. One journalist noted that while it sounds like Tchouameni is extending his contract, sources in Madrid suggested that Real Madrid could still sell him. Another journalist stated that Tchouameni would be content playing for Manchester United if his situation at Real Madrid were to change.

Tchouameni is considered a dream target for United, particularly to potentially succeed Casemiro in the No. 6 role. He fits United’s preferred age profile for new signings, which is between 22 and 26 years old. His current contract with Real Madrid runs until 2028.

Reports suggest that Tchouameni could be available for a fee of £70m. This figure is less than the reported price tag for another midfield target, Alex Scott, who is valued at £80m or higher. Other previous targets, Elliot Anderson and Mateus Fernandes, moved for higher fees this summer, at £116m and £85m respectively.

The situation at Real Madrid could be influenced by the potential transfer of Rodri from Manchester City. Rodri, who recently won the World Cup as captain of Spain, has expressed admiration for Real Madrid. With a year remaining on his contract at Manchester City, there have been indications that he desires a move to the Spanish capital. Manchester City has offered the 30-year-old a new contract, but it remains unsigned.

If Real Madrid were to pursue Rodri this summer, it could necessitate a midfield sale at the Bernabeu. Tchouameni is seen as the most likely player to generate a significant transfer fee, even though Real Madrid might prefer to sell Eduardo Camavinga. Jose Mourinho, Real Madrid’s manager, has reportedly expressed his desire to keep the 26-year-old Tchouameni.

While a deal for Tchouameni currently appears unlikely, the evolving transfer market, particularly concerning Rodri, could create a scenario where Manchester United’s pursuit becomes more viable. United have already made progress in their midfield rebuild this summer.

Transfer Market Dynamics

The interest in Tchouameni highlights the dynamic nature of the transfer market. Even after a player reportedly agrees to new terms, the absence of a formal announcement can keep transfer possibilities open. Manchester United’s strategy involves monitoring such situations, especially for players who fit their long-term plans.

The club’s decision to sign two midfielders early in the transfer window provides them with the luxury of patience. This allows them to wait and observe how situations unfold at other major clubs, such as Real Madrid, which could lead to unexpected opportunities later in the window.

The potential move of Rodri to Real Madrid is a key factor that could trigger a chain of events in the midfield market. Such a high-profile transfer could force Real Madrid to make decisions regarding their existing midfield options, potentially opening the door for Manchester United to acquire Tchouameni.

Manchester United’s new away kit for the 2026/27 season, inspired by the 1988 kit, features wavy stripes echoing the River Irwell.

Source: manchestereveningnews.co.uk