Tchouaméni has been linked with United for an extended period, but a move to Old Trafford appears unlikely. The France international is reportedly close to extending his Real Madrid contract until 2031, with the salary required for a transfer also viewed as a major obstacle. His 33 league appearances and one goal last season underline his importance to the Spanish club’s midfield.
United have made progress elsewhere. A £50m deal for Andrey Santos has reportedly been agreed with Chelsea, and the midfielder has permission to undergo a medical. The move is not yet confirmed, but it currently represents United’s clearest route to adding depth.
The situation involving Ederson is less settled. United reportedly agreed a £35m deal for the Atalanta midfielder more than a month ago, yet the transfer has been delayed by plans for two medical examinations before his contract can be signed.
The list of missed alternatives is growing. Mateus Fernandes and Sandro Tonali were both wanted by United but joined Tottenham, while Elliot Anderson is reportedly set to move from Nottingham Forest to Manchester City in a £116m deal.
Those outcomes have reduced the number of proven options available in a market where elite midfielders command significant fees. Tchouaméni’s expected renewal also removes a player capable of providing defensive coverage, ball progression and Champions League experience.
United’s need is sharpened by the demands of a return to Europe’s top competition. The club must improve squad depth without allowing negotiations to drift across several targets at once.
United’s immediate focus is likely to be completing the Santos deal and resolving Ederson’s medical process. If both moves progress, the midfield picture will improve, but the failed pursuit of Tchouaméni shows how quickly the market is narrowing. Further recruitment may depend on whether United can convert interest into completed agreements before their preferred alternatives disappear.