- Manchester United want Aurelien Tchouameni
- David Ornstein has dropped an update
- Real Madrid midfielder has big decision
Aurelien Tchouameni reportedly features high on Manchester United’s shortlist ahead of a major midfield overhaul in the summer transfer window. The Real Madrid man would, ironically, be replacing the player he succeeded at the Bernabeu, Casemiro, who is set to depart United after four years.
Tchouameni fits the criteria as Michael Carrick looks to build on an unlikely third-place Premier League finish and prepare for a Champions League return. At 26, the France international is entering his prime years and understands the pressure of playing for one of the world’s biggest clubs.
He is also a predominantly defensive-minded midfielder, unlike more well-rounded targets like Elliot Anderson, Adam Wharton and Sandro Tonali. On Saturday, David Ornstein offered a glimmer of hope to those United supporters keen to see Tchoumeni arrive at Old Trafford.
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Tchouameni to Man Utd is on?
While discussing United’s summer transfer plans on NBC Sports, Ornstein claimed that Tchouameni’s arrival from Real was “one to keep an eye on.”
The Champions League winner’s recent training ground bust-up with vice-captain Federico Valverde sparked further speculation about his future in Madrid. Real were quick to punish both players financially and draw a line under the situation, but it feels improbable that both midfielders will remain at Los Blancos.
United are set to target at least two new midfielders this summer. Casemiro will bid farewell to Old Trafford this afternoon when the Red Devils host Nottingham Forest in the Premier League.
Carrick also needs to recruit competition for Kobbie Mainoo. The 21-year-old should play a prominent role alongside Casemiro’s replacement next season after signing a new long-term contract.
A third midfielder should enter the agenda if Manuel Ugarte departs as expected.
The Tchouameni problem
United must avoid repeating the same mistakes of the previous regime. The frustration of the Frenkie de Jong saga of 2022 still lingers after a summer-long pursuit that, conveniently, ended with the arrival of Casemiro.
Erik ten Hag was convinced he would lure his former Ajax student to Manchester, and United agreed an £85million deal with Barcelona. But De Jong wanted to stay.
And there lies the biggest hurdle when it comes to Tchouameni. There is only hope if the Frenchman wants to leave Real. There is also no indication that he does.
It is no coincidence that the previous three players who joined United from Real were either past their prime or surplus to requirements. Casemiro, Raphael Varane and Angel Di Maria, if you wondered.
If Tchouameni’s heart is in it, United should be all over it. There is no more attractive option to succeed Casemiro this summer. But this new regime must know when it is time to walk away.
