- Man Utd hold interest in Aurelien Tchouameni
- Real Madrid star has been “watched in person”
- Red Devils are prepared to swoop if available
Laurie Whitwell has given an update on Manchester United‘s interest in Real Madrid midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni. The French star is seen as a potential replacement for Casemiro ahead of the Brazilian’s departure.
Tchouameni emerged as a United target about a month ago and there has been no response from the player or Madrid to downplay speculation. That’s unlike his teammate, Eduardo Camavinga, who has insisted he doesn’t want to leave the Santiago Bernabeu.
The 26-year-old has been involved in behind-the-scenes controversy in recent weeks. Two physical altercations with Federico Valverde led to both players being fined by the Spanish club.
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Man Utd ‘watch’ Tchouameni
Tchouameni has been a key man in the middle of the park ever since arriving from AS Monaco in the summer of 2022. He has been a mainstay in Los Blancos’ team this season, featuring 49 times across competitions, posting two goals and as many assists.
United’s interest in the Frenchman is legitimate, judging by Whitwell’s comments. He explained how not only are the Reds weighing up a move, but scouts have seemingly been in Madrid (via The Athletic):
“If United were to look for a statement signing across Europe, then Madrid’s Aurelien Tchouameni would fit the bill perfectly. United officials have watched Tchouameni in person this season, and are in position should Real express an openness to selling.”
Tchouameni isn’t the only midfielder on United’s shortlist but he’s certainly one of two at the top of the list. Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson is the other one whom the Reds are desperate to land as they try to replace Casemiro.
Optimism but not confidence
The fact that United officials have watched Tchouameni in person suggests they have been considering a move for the Madrid man for quite some time. It also indicates that the club does feel there is a genuine chance of him heading to Old Trafford, as they are preparing themselves in case he becomes available.
There are, of course, many stumbling blocks, including his club’s stance on his future. Jose Mourinho has arrived as Alvaro Arbeloa’s replacement, and the Portuguese manager may well decide he wants to keep him.
Tchouameni also needs to make clear that he wants out of the Bernabeu. It unfortunately has the same feeling as the Frenkie de Jong transfer saga from back in 2022, although at least the transfer chiefs aren’t making bids for a player who has openly said he doesn’t want to leave.
