Real Madrid’s £120m bid for Enzo Fernandez could unlock Manchester United’s pursuit of Aurelien Tchouameni
A potential transfer of the Chelsea vice-captain to Spain may create the financial and structural conditions for United to secure the French midfielder.
Real Madrid have formally expressed their interest in signing Chelsea vice-captain Enzo Fernandez this summer, with the Spanish giants valuing the player at £120 million. The move comes as the club anticipates a significant squad reshuffle following two consecutive seasons without a major trophy, a rare occurrence for Los Blancos. A successful acquisition of Fernandez, who is contracted until 2032, could generate the necessary leverage for Manchester United to pursue their own target.
According to reports, a deal between Chelsea and Real Madrid could facilitate Manchester United’s long-standing pursuit of Real Madrid midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni. The French international, aged 26, is estimated to cost approximately £70 million. United have tracked Tchouameni since his time at AS Monaco, and he has re-emerged as a priority target amid an ongoing search for midfield reinforcements under the INEOS group.
Fabrizio Romano has described Tchouameni as an internally considered 'dream midfielder target' for Manchester United. The agent noted that the club views the player as a potential successor to Casemiro, whose role has been pivotal in recent years. Securing Tchouameni would provide United with an experienced and proven star in the heart of the park, aligning with their strategic needs for the upcoming season.
The urgency for United to secure a new midfielder is underscored by the impending departure of Casemiro. The veteran is reportedly closing in on a move to Inter Miami as a free agent. Casemiro recently agreed to be omitted from United’s final home fixture against Brighton and Hove Albion to prepare for representing Brazil in an upcoming major tournament, having bid farewell to fans after the 2025/2026 season’s final home outing.
While the focus remains on the midfield dynamics between these three clubs, Chelsea are also undergoing a managerial transition. Xabi Alonso has been appointed as the new Chelsea manager on a four-year contract, commencing on 1 July. He replaces interim manager Calum McFarlane, who has been in charge for the final two matches of the season against Tottenham and Sunderland, following the sacking of Liam Rosenior less than a month ago.
