Key Takeaways:
- Manchester United have reportedly been given approval to make a bid for Real Madrid midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni
- Despite recent arrivals of Andrey Santos from Chelsea (£50million) and Youri Tielemans from Aston Villa (£35m), United are still seeking a replacement for Casemiro
- Real Madrid are said to be open to Tchouameni’s departure before the window closes, planning to target Manchester City’s Rodri as a replacement
United Bolster Midfield but Keep Eyes on Tchouameni
Manchester United have been given encouragement to pursue Real Madrid’s Aurelien Tchouameni, as reports indicate the Spanish club is open to letting the French international leave before the current transfer window shuts. The Red Devils, who prioritised midfield reinforcements this summer under Michael Carrick’s guidance, have already secured two notable signings but are searching for a player to fill Casemiro’s shoes following the expiry of his contract.
🚨 𝗡𝗘𝗪: Real Madrid are willing to sell Aurelien Tchouameni to Manchester United if the money is right.
— @samuelluckhurst pic.twitter.com/v3xSmm7aEj
— The Touchline | 𝐓 (@TouchlineX) July 23, 2026
Real Madrid Position and Mourinho’s Frustration
Aurelien Tchouameni has been linked to Old Trafford for several years, with interest predating his move from Monaco to Real Madrid in the summer of 2022. Speculation surrounding his future has persisted during his tenure at the Bernabeu, and now Manchester United could be poised to intensify their pursuit, having reportedly received a favourable response to a recent enquiry. According to The Sun, Los Blancos are making preparations to replace Tchouameni, identifying Manchester City’s Rodri as their prime target.
The report states that Jose Mourinho initially insisted on retaining Tchouameni, but senior Real Madrid officials have decided to capitalise on a potential sale, leaving the manager frustrated over the decision.
Timing and Transfer Dynamics
The situation could advance rapidly now that the World Cup has concluded for France following their exit in the semi-finals. United see Tchouameni as a desirable addition, not only for his track record – having started a World Cup final and secured the Champions League with Real Madrid – but also due to his reliability and age profile, which matches United’s current recruitment strategy. The midfielder is under contract at Real Madrid until the summer of 2028, and was reportedly shortlisted by Manchester United before the start of the ongoing window.
Though United’s interest is well-documented, the exact transfer fee Real Madrid would demand remains uncertain, with the Spanish side having paid approximately £85m to acquire Tchouameni from Monaco four years ago.
