Man United are expected to look at other midfield targets after missing out on the signing of Mateus Fernandes from Tottenham, with Real Madrid’s Aurelien Tchouameni a ‘dream signing’ for them.
The Portuguese player has been in high demand at Old Trafford throughout the transfer window, with United holding talks as they explore a deal with West Ham.
However, Tottenham have now won the race for Fernandes after news that they have agreed to meet West Ham’s £85 million fee in a guaranteed fee.
The midfielder has enjoyed an impressive campaign despite struggling West Ham, establishing himself as one of the most impressive midfielders in the Premier League.
You scored a goal
out of 20
Fernandes has been widely praised for his possession, consistent passing and ability to handle the ball in midfield, attracting the attention of several top clubs across Europe.
His expected move to Tottenham leaves United looking for other options as they continue to look to strengthen their midfield following the signing of Ederson from Atalanta.
One player who remains firmly on the club’s radar is Real’s Tchouaméni.
|
Football FanCast verdict |
|
|---|---|
|
Honesty |
Fabrizio Romano has established himself as one of the most respected and trusted transfer journalists in football through his extensive network of contacts across clubs, agents and players. He is known for providing updates at all stages of negotiations, from initial interest to completed deals, often before official announcements are made. So you are a 10/10 source for this kind of information. |
|
Finance |
United’s biggest hurdle so far is not just convincing Real Madrid to sell, but making the finances work. Chouaméni is reported to earn around £207,000 a week in Spain, and Fabrizio Romano has suggested that his salary is one of the biggest obstacles to any deal. On top of that, Real Madrid are expected to demand around £85-100 million for one of their most valuable midfielders. Unless United can lower the financial package, especially the player’s salary, a transfer will remain difficult despite his long-standing reputation. |
|
Understanding |
Chouameni began his career with Bordeaux, where he quickly established himself as one of France’s brightest young midfielders. His performances earned him a move to Monaco in 2020, and he became one of the most outstanding players in Ligue 1, combining defensive discipline with good passing skills. Real Madrid signed him in 2022, eyeing him as a long-term replacement in midfield, and he has become a regular in one of Europe’s strongest squads. Internationally, Tchouaméni has become an important player in France. |
|
Impact |
Chouaméni will bring authority, proven quality and experience to United’s midfield. His ability to break up attacks, keep possession and control the quality of games would add real balance to Carrick’s side, and he has the experience of competing for big trophies, which could be useful in the Red Devils’ dressing room. |
Despite the praise from Old Trafford, completing the deal remains a major challenge.
Fabrizio Romano shares how Man Utd could unlock Aurelien Tchouameni’s deal
Speaking about the situation, transfer expert Fabrizio Romano explained why Man United are currently facing major obstacles in trying to bring Tchouaméni to the Premier League.
However, there is a way they can open up a potential deal.
“Many of you are asking me about Tchouameni now,” said Romano.
“Chouameni is a dream signing for Man Utd, they love the player, but at the moment, the fee is considered too high.
“It’s not just about Real Madrid, it’s about the salary. Aurelien Tchouameni’s salary is considered very high.
“So the only way to open the doors to Tchouameni at Man Utd, after missing out on Mateus Fernandes, is to discuss a completely different salary.”
Those comments suggest United’s interest is genuine, but that any progress will depend on whether the financial package becomes a reality.
Real Madrid are also under no apparent pressure to sell one of their first-team players, meaning United will need to satisfy the Spanish club and the player before a deal can be reached.
After missing out on Fernandes, United are expected to continue to monitor the midfield market as they weigh their next move.
Man Utd may make a statement by signing Tchouameni
If there is a route to completing the deal, Tchouaméni would represent a great addition to Michael Carrick’s squad.
The Frenchman has developed into one of the best midfielders in Europe since joining Real Madrid from Monaco in 2022.
Chouaméni has made nearly 140 appearances for the Spanish giants, helping the club compete in both La Liga and the Champions League while regularly featuring in some of the biggest games in world football.
Shielding the defence, breaking up opposition attacks and spreading the ball, the 26-year-old has become a key member of Real’s midfield.
He also established himself as a regular in France, playing extensively in major international tournaments and earning a reputation as one of the game’s most complete midfielders.
Ederson’s side: New Mainoo set to “officially” sign for Man Utd
Manchester United are as busy as ever in the summer transfer market.
