Aurelien Tchouameni to Manchester United is possible again, despite the midfielder reportedly signing a new Real Madrid contract.
United retain a genuine interest, but any move depends on Madrid actively pursuing Rodri and accepting that the France international must be sold.
The latest reports have created a confusing picture. Tchouameni appeared to have ended the speculation by agreeing improved terms at the Bernabéu, only for Madrid’s position to change following developments around Rodri.
United therefore have encouragement, but they do not yet have a deal within reach.
Did Tchouameni sign a new Real Madrid contract?
Yes, according to several leading reports.
Fabrizio Romano reported earlier in July that Tchouameni had signed a new agreement until June 2031, with the legal work completed. Real Madrid have not yet published an official announcement, but the agreement is widely considered complete.
Andy Mitten has now provided further detail in The National. Madrid reportedly gave Tchouameni a three-year extension and improved his wages because they did not initially believe Rodri was available.
The new contract does not automatically prevent a summer transfer. It gives Madrid greater control and allows them to demand a larger fee than they could have with only two years remaining on his previous deal.
Why Real Madrid could still sell Tchouameni
Madrid’s interest in Rodri has altered the situation.
Mitten reports that the Spanish club now believe the Manchester City midfielder could become available. Madrid would need to generate a major sale before financing another expensive addition, placing Tchouameni’s future back under consideration.
ReadManUtd reported on 25 July that Madrid were willing to discuss the Frenchman’s situation. The report also identified the two major obstacles facing United: his transfer valuation and increased salary.
Tchouameni remains happy in Madrid and has not requested a departure. However, The National says he could consider United if Madrid made it clear that he was no longer central to their plans.
This would not be a player forcing his way to Old Trafford. United would need Madrid to make the first decisive move.
Will Tchouameni to Manchester United happen?
As things stand, the transfer looks unlikely rather than impossible.
Tchouameni is arguably the strongest specialist defensive midfielder on United’s shortlist. Michael Carrick has added Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos, but neither naturally provides the positional discipline and physical protection previously offered by Casemiro.
United still want another midfielder after ending their pursuit of Alex Scott over Bournemouth’s £70million valuation. ReadManUtd’s update on Scott confirmed that the club will not abandon its financial limits, even for a leading target.
That approach could become the deciding factor with Tchouameni. Reports have placed Madrid’s possible asking price around £68million, while the player’s improved contract has increased his salary.
United would also need to reserve funds for a left-back and potentially another attacker. Committing a substantial fee and one of the squad’s highest wages to a third midfield signing may restrict those plans.
The clearest route involves Madrid completing or significantly advancing their move for Rodri. Without that development, there is little reason for them to sell a 26-year-old midfielder they have just secured until 2031.
United’s interest is real, but Madrid’s Rodri pursuit must move first.
