MU has never given up on Tchouameni

Even after securing Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans, MU is still pressing forward with its midfield reinforcement strategy. Coach Michael Carrick views Aurelien Tchouameni as the primary option to upgrade the engine room in the upcoming campaign.

The French midfielder just experienced a disappointing 2026 World Cup, as France finished in fourth place. However, this has not diminished the 26-year-old's appeal on the transfer market. MU remains the most determined suitor, as they need a top-class midfielder capable of filling the void left by Casemiro at Old Trafford.

The perfect replacement for Casemiro

The biggest difference between Tchouameni and Andrey Santos or Tielemans is that he is a true defensive midfielder. Four years ago, Real Madrid chose the French international as Casemiro's successor after the Brazilian moved to MU itself.

A powerful and disciplined playing style makes Tchouameni a reliable "sweeper" in front of Real Madrid's defense. Last season's statistics clearly reflect this, as he averaged 2.33 successful tackles per game and won 75.8% of his duels. Not only strong in interception, Tchouameni also possesses quality through-balls to unlock opposing defenses. After 49 appearances across all competitions last season, he contributed 2 goals and 2 assists.

If Tchouameni is successfully signed, Carrick will have more tactical options. The French midfielder can play in the deepest midfield role to operate MU in a 4-3-3 formation, or partner with Kobbie Mainoo in a 4-2-3-1 system.

More importantly, Tchouameni's arrival would make MU's midfield more balanced and solid. Casemiro still retains the desire to contribute, but age signs prevent him from maintaining his previous intensity. Meanwhile, Manuel Ugarte - MU's only true defensive midfielder - will be sidelined long-term due to an injury sustained while playing for Uruguay at the 2026 World Cup.

Not easy to deal with Real Madrid

Tchouameni is clearly the ideal piece for MU's midfield, but turning that desire into reality is an extremely difficult task. The 26-year-old's contract with Real Madrid runs until 2031, and more importantly, coach Jose Mourinho considers him an irreplaceable asset at the Bernabeu.

That is also why Real Madrid is ready to close the disciplinary incident involving Tchouameni and Federico Valverde on the training ground in May, and simultaneously extend his contract to end all rumors about his potential departure from the Bernabeu.

If MU shifts its focus to Eduardo Camavinga or Dani Ceballos, the chances might be brighter since both are not in Mourinho's plans. But with Tchouameni, Real Madrid will almost certainly reject any offer.

MU's hope can only appear if Real Madrid is determined to sign Rodri. After a brilliant 2026 World Cup with Spain and winning the tournament's Golden Ball, the 29-year-old midfielder is considered the top target for the Royal club. If this deal materializes, the door for Tchouameni might open.

Nevertheless, the transfer fee will undoubtedly be huge, and MU must still convince the French international that Old Trafford can offer him a new challenge. Four years ago, Casemiro also left Real Madrid to join MU after conquering almost every trophy with the Royal club.