'The name I keep hearing...' - Man United move for top priority signing revealed
Manchester United have identified Real Madrid star Aurelien Tchouameni as their top target to complete their midfield overhaul.
The 26-year-old has been a long-term target for the Red Devils, and his potential availability has placed them on high alert as they aim to bolster their midfield.
Following the signings of Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans, a third midfield signing is expected, and the Real Madrid star is the top target for that role.
Former Man United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider that the possibility of signing Tchouameni has been discussed frequently behind the scenes at Old Trafford.
Los Blancos tied the France international down to a three-year deal earlier this month, but with a view to maximising his value rather than preventing his sale.
As a result, Man United are waiting for the green-light to make a move, with some suggestions any deal could depend on whether Real Madrid land a new midfielder.
Could Man United make a move to sign Aurelien Tchouameni?
Football Insider first revealed in April that Man United are plotting a move to sign Tchouameni as one of their top targets to strengthen in midfield this summer.
A number of options have been eyed by the Old Trafford recruitment team, but Tchouameni's name continues to crop up in discussions behind the scenes.
As a result, he is viewed as the leading target for Michael Carrick's side, and there is a feeling a deal could be agreed despite his recent contract twist.
"The name I keep hearing at Man United is Aurelien Tchouameni," Brown told Football Insider.
"Everybody knows they're looking for a new midfielder, and he's somebody they have liked for a long time, even back before his move to Real Madrid when he was playing in France.
"They've already got two midfield signings done, and they now want one more, somebody to come in and replace Casemiro.
"I'm not totally convinced Tchouameni would be a like-for-like replacement, because Casemiro popped up with some very important goals that I'm not sure it'll be easy to replicate.
"But he does seem to be the one Man United want, and there's been suggestions Real Madrid could let him go, so they are waiting until they know there is a deal to be done.
"If Real Madrid go out and bring in another midfielder, it might push him down the pecking order and free up a deal for him to move on."
Why are Real Madrid willing to let Tchouameni go?
Despite tying him down to a new contract just weeks ago, Real Madrid have not ruled out selling Tchouameni this summer, placing Man United on high alert.
This comes as Los Blancos have their own midfield transfer plans, with the addition of an elite option in that position likely to push the France international out.
Brown told Football Insider on 24 July that Real Madrid are pushing to sign Rodri from Man City following his outstanding displays for Spain at the World Cup.
The 30-year-old was outstanding in North America, as he won Player of the Tournament alongside the World Cup, beating Argentina in what proved to be a one-sided final.
Real Madrid are set to accelerate their plans to sign Rodri following his performances on the biggest stage, and his arrival could mean Tchouameni moves on.