Manchester United executives are preparing to travel to Madrid for transfer negotiations regarding Real Madrid midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni, as the club intensifies its summer recruitment strategy.
According to reports from Diario AS on July 7, 2026, newly permanent manager Michael Carrick seeks to bolster his squad ahead of United's return to the Champions League.
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The pursuit of Tchouameni follows the departure of Casemiro and marks an additional midfield target alongside Atalanta's Ederson, whose transfer remains delayed pending a secondary medical examination after the World Cup.
Financial Commitment and Potential Hurdles
Acquiring the French international will require a substantial financial commitment.
Diario AS indicates that Real Madrid will demand a fee exceeding 85 million pounds for any major player sales this summer.
Securing the midfielder faces a potential hurdle given the player's reported desire to remain at the Bernabeu.
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However, the strong historical transfer relationship between both clubs could facilitate discussions.
Manchester United and Real Madrid have previously established a positive negotiation track record, highlighted by the high-profile transfers of Raphael Varane in 2021 and Casemiro in 2022.
United Declines Move for Rafael Leao
Concurrently, United has addressed options for its attacking frontline after AC Milan winger Rafael Leao was offered to the club by his representatives, according to a report by The Sun.
Carrick has decided against pursuing the Portuguese superstar, effectively declining the opportunity to hijack a potential move to Tottenham Hotspur, where Leao has previously expressed a willingness to play.
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The decision leaves Barcelona and clubs within the Saudi Pro League as the primary alternative destinations for the AC Milan forward while United focuses its financial resources on its midfield priorities.
