Manchester United has spent the last few weeks working behind the scenes to try to secure one of the biggest signings of the transfer window. However, the latest updates from the Spanish press suggest that the Red Devils have failed miserably in their attempt to sign French midfielder Aurélien Tchouaméni, with Real Madrid rejecting an offer valued at €90 million.
According to the latest information, Man United made a formal approach for the 25-year-old player last summer, but Real Madrid immediately closed the door and did not open any negotiations. The response was a categorical "no", leaving no room for counter-offers.
Manchester United still far from Tchouaméni
Tchouaméni continues to be seen as an essential player in Real Madrid's midfield and a key part of Carlo Ancelotti's future plans. Since arriving from Monaco in 2022 for around €80 million (a figure that could reach €100 million with bonuses), the Frenchman has established himself as one of the best defensive midfielders in Europe, forming a solid partnership with Fede Valverde and increasingly taking on the role of a reference point in the defensive midfield.
This season, the midfielder has played 18 matches, scored one goal and is practically an undisputed starter when he is injury-free. Real Madrid considers his current market value to be higher than the €90 million offered, especially since the player's contract runs until June 2028 and the club is under no financial or sporting pressure to sell him.
The rejection did not surprise Manchester United's staff, but it reinforces the club's difficulty in attracting top names while it remains out of the Champions League. Coach Ruben Amorim's top priority is to sign a high-level defensive midfielder in January or, more realistically, next summer, and Tchouaméni was the number one target on the list.
With Real Madrid's refusal, United must now redirect their efforts to other monitored options, such as Ederson (Atalanta), João Neves (Benfica) and other names circulating in the English press. Meanwhile, Aurélien Tchouaméni remains focused on Real Madrid, where he is treated as untouchable and a key player for the coming years.