Manchester United are preparing for a significant midfield rebuild in the upcoming summer transfer window, according to multiple reports. The club is expected to part ways with veteran midfielder Casemiro, who is set to leave on a free transfer at the end of the current season. In response, United have identified several targets to bolster their midfield, with Real Madrid's Aurélien Tchouaméni emerging as a leading candidate. The French international is valued at around £70 million, though it remains unclear whether Real Madrid will entertain offers for the 25-year-old. The club's recruitment team, led by director of football Jason Wilcox, is working on multiple fronts to secure reinforcements, with the midfield identified as a priority area for strengthening. United's need for a defensive midfielder has been evident this season, and the departure of Casemiro would leave a significant void in experience and quality. The club is expected to be active in the market, with a budget that could be supplemented by player sales.
Beyond Tchouaméni, Manchester United have a broad list of alternatives. Brighton's Carlos Baleba is a target, with a reported valuation of approximately £50 million. Crystal Palace's Adam Wharton is also on the radar, though his price tag is at least £60 million. Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson represents a more expensive option, with a cost of at least £100 million. Additionally, Atalanta's Éderson has been identified as a potential recruit, valued at €40-50 million (£35-45 million). The Guardian has singled out Éderson as a key target to replace Casemiro, while other sources emphasize Tchouaméni and a broader list, suggesting different levels of priority or stages of the transfer process. Manchester United's director of football, Jason Wilcox, is said to be an admirer of Éderson, which could influence the club's pursuit. Each of these targets brings different attributes: Baleba offers physicality and potential, Wharton is a creative passer, Anderson provides versatility, and Éderson is a box-to-box midfielder with Serie A experience. United's scouting department has been monitoring these players for months, and initial contacts have been made with some clubs.
I loved him at Monaco before he went to Real Madrid. I think he's a phenomenal footballer and exactly what United need in that sitting area.
Real Madrid's stance on potential departures adds another layer of complexity. According to reports, Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez is a huge admirer of Manchester City midfielder Rodri, who has just over one year remaining on his contract. This interest could affect the availability of Tchouaméni, as Real Madrid are reportedly more open to entertaining offers for Eduardo Camavinga than for Tchouaméni. The Spanish giants may be reluctant to sell Tchouaméni unless they secure a replacement, with Rodri seen as a potential long-term target if Pep Guardiola leaves Manchester City. Real Madrid's transfer strategy is often influenced by Pérez's personal preferences, and his admiration for Rodri could lead to a major move in 2025. However, City are likely to demand a significant fee for Rodri, who is considered one of the best midfielders in the world. The situation is further complicated by Rodri's contract situation, with just over a year remaining, which could give Madrid leverage.
On the outgoing side, Manchester United midfielder Manuel Ugarte has rarely featured this season and could be sold or loaned out in the summer. The Uruguayan's future remains uncertain, and his departure would further underscore the need for reinforcements in the middle of the park. Ugarte joined United from Paris Saint-Germain last summer but has struggled for playing time under manager Ruben Amorim. The club is open to offers for the 23-year-old, who could fetch a fee in the region of £40-50 million. His potential exit would free up wages and provide additional funds for new signings. United are also expected to listen to offers for other fringe midfielders, as they look to streamline the squad and create space for new arrivals.
I don't see Real Madrid selling Tchouameni until they get somebody who can replace him – maybe Rodri if Pep leaves Man City – or if [Florentino Perez] wants to rip it up because they're not winning.
Former Manchester United midfielder Nicky Butt has weighed in on the club's transfer plans. According to Metro - Main, Butt described Tchouaméni as a 'phenomenal player' and said he is exactly what Manchester United need. Butt added that signing Tchouaméni is a 'long shot' and depends on whether Pep Guardiola leaves Manchester City, as that could trigger a chain reaction involving Rodri's potential move to Real Madrid. Butt also noted that in previous years, Manchester United would have pursued multiple top targets, but he is unsure if that is feasible now. He emphasized Tchouaméni's experience in the Champions League and international tournaments, calling him a 'beast of a player' who is entering his prime. Butt's comments reflect both the ambition and the challenges facing United's recruitment team as they navigate a complex transfer market. The former midfielder's perspective is valuable given his experience at the club and his current role in youth development, though he is not directly involved in first-team transfers.
He's a phenomenal player and that would be showing real intent of, we're not messing about, we're going to go for it.
He's playing for one of the biggest football clubs in the world. It's a long shot and, for me, depends on if Pep was to leave.
I'd go for two of them.
In years gone by Man United would have gone for both. Whether that's doable or not, I'm not sure.
I always talk about Premier League experience, but that's more with younger players, like a Rasmus Hojlund or a Benjamin Sesko.
This boy has been playing in Europe, in the Champions League for years.
He's a top player, an international player, been in big tournaments. He's a fantastic player, so with that one I think you just go, 'he's capable'.
Obviously you never quite know until they come in but he's a beast of a player.
Tchouameni is getting into his prime, he's got everything. He's a good footballer, powerful, quick, strong, aggressive. He's one that we will need.