Man United are expected to turn their attention towards alternative midfield targets after missing out on the signing of Mateus Fernandes to Tottenham, and Real Madrid’s Aurelien Tchouameni is a ‘dream signing’ for them.
The Portugal international has been the subject of strong interest from Old Trafford throughout the transfer window, with United holding talks as they explored a deal with West Ham.
However, Tottenham have now won the race for Fernandes after news they agreed to meet West Ham’s £85 million valuation with a guaranteed fee.
The midfielder enjoyed an outstanding campaign despite West Ham’s struggles, establishing himself as one of the Premier League’s most impressive young central midfielders.
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Fernandes earned widespread praise for his composure in possession, progressive passing and ability to carry the ball through midfield, attracting interest from several leading clubs across Europe.
His expected move to Tottenham leaves United searching for other options as they continue looking to strengthen the centre of the pitch after signing Ederson from Atalanta.
One player who has remained firmly on the club’s radar is Real’s Tchouaméni.
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Football FanCast’s Verdict |
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Credibility |
Fabrizio Romano has established himself as one of football’s most recognisable and trusted transfer journalists through his extensive network of contacts across clubs, agents and players. He is known for providing updates at every stage of negotiations, from initial interest through to completed deals, often before official announcements are made. So he is a 10/10 source for this kind of information. |
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Finances |
United’s biggest hurdle by far is not just convincing Real Madrid to sell, but making the finances work. Tchouaméni is reported to earn around £207,000 per week in Spain, and Fabrizio Romano has suggested his salary is one of the main obstacles to any deal. On top of that, Real Madrid are expected to demand a fee in the region of £85-100 million for one of their most important midfielders. Unless United can lower the overall financial package, particularly the player’s wages, a transfer will remain difficult despite their long-standing admiration. |
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Insight |
Tchouameni 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 developed into one of Ligue 1’s standout players, combining defensive discipline with excellent passing ability. Real Madrid signed him in 2022, viewing him as a long-term successor in midfield, and he has since become a regular in one of Europe’s strongest squads. Internationally, Tchouaméni has also become a key player for France. |
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Impact |
Tchouaméni would bring authority, proven quality and experience to United’s midfield. His ability to break up attacks, retain possession and control the tempo of matches would add real balance to Carrick’s side, and he also has experience competing for major trophies, which could prove invaluable to the Red Devils dressing room. |
Despite the admiration from Old Trafford, completing a deal remains a significant challenge.
Fabrizio Romano shares how Man Utd can unlock Aurelien Tchouameni deal
Speaking about the situation, transfer expert Fabrizio Romano explained why Man United currently face major obstacles in trying to bring Tchouaméni to the Premier League.
However, there is a way they can unlock a potential deal.
“Many of you asking me about Tchouameni now,” said Romano.
“Tchouameni is a dream signing for Man Utd, they love the player, but at the moment, the financials of the deal are considered still too high.
“It’s not just about Real Madrid, it is also about the salary. The salary of Aurelien Tchouameni is considered too high.
“So the only way to open doors to Tchouameni to 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 more realistic.
Real Madrid also remain under no obvious pressure to sell one of their established first-team players, meaning United would likely need to satisfy both the Spanish club and the player before any agreement could be reached.
After missing out on Fernandes, United are expected to continue monitoring the midfield market as they weigh up their next move.
Man Utd could make statement signing with Tchouameni
If there is a route to completing a deal, Tchouaméni would represent a major addition to Michael Carrick’s squad.
The France international has developed into one of Europe’s leading holding midfielders since joining Real Madrid from Monaco in 2022.
Tchouaméni has made nearly 140 appearances for the Spanish giants, helping the club compete for both La Liga and the Champions League while regularly featuring in some of the biggest matches in world football.
Comfortable shielding the defence, breaking up opposition attacks and distributing possession, the 26-year-old has become an important member of Real’s midfield.
He has also established himself as a regular for France, featuring prominently at major international tournaments and earning a reputation as one of the game’s most complete defensive midfielders.
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