Manchester United are expected to be active in this summer’s transfer window. Casemiro will headline the names heading for United’s exit door, while INEOS reportedly has a shortlist of players at multiple positions.
According to James Ducker of The Telegraph, one player who is emerging as a genuine transfer target is Real Madrid’s Aurelien Tchouameni.
“Manchester United are keeping a close eye on Aurelien Tchouameni’s situation at Real Madrid,” Ducker wrote.
Transfermarkt estimates Tchouameni would cost United somewhere in the region of $87.6 Million.
Nevertheless, United will face a challenge in trying to pry Tchouameni away from Madrid. Any transfer for the French international would hinge on Real finding a suitable replacement during the same window.
Interestingly, Manchester City’s Rodri could be the catalyst that leads United to land the star midfielder.
“Any move for Tchouaméni – who is contracted until 2028 – could hinge on Real signing a new midfielder this summer and their need to sell to finance that deal,” Ducker continued. “Florentino Pérez, the club’s president, is known to admire Rodri, the Madrid-born Manchester City midfielder who won the Ballon d’Or in 2024.”
One of United’s biggest problems in recent years has been how late they’ve concluded their transfer business. The earlier they can get their targets through the doors of Old Trafford, the better. After all, it will afford the coaching staff more time to work with them throughout pre-season.
Therefore, United would be wise to avoid any drawn-out negotiations, especially if they hinge on business happening elsewhere.
Manchester United Have Other Targets
Tchouameni isn’t the only name on United’s shortlist of midfield targets. Newcastle United’s Sandro Tonali has been linked with the club, as has Adam Wharton of Crystal Palace.
“Telegraph Sport revealed in February that Sandro Tonali, the Newcastle midfielder, was high on their midfield shortlist but the chances of a move are believed to be receding as they assess other options,” Ducker wrote. “…Adam Wharton, the Crystal Palace midfielder, is another who has been heavily scouted but is thought to be considered too similar to Kobbie Mainoo to be a natural partner in the deeper midfield positions.”
With Casemiro heading for the exit door and Manuel Ugarte’s future still unclear, United may need multiple new midfield additions this summer.
United Should Hire A Manager Before Transfers
Regardless of how many names United have on their shortlist, they should first focus on cementing their next long-term manager. After all, they will need some input on any new additions and how they fit into future tactical systems.
Michael Carrick would be a strong choice to remain in the hot seat. He’s turned United’s fortunes around since taking control at the start of 2026. However, he doesn’t come with the winning resume United’s board will likely covet.
So, before committing serious money on new arrivals, United must first focus on pinning down their next manager. And in turn, the style of play they’re looking to produce. Only then can they begin to make moves in the transfer market and reshape the current roster.
Otherwise, they risk continuing on the current hamster wheel for another half-decade or so.
Manchester United Eyeing Potential $87.6 Million Transfer For Real Madrid Star