Real Madrid sale to Manchester United could unlock Mourinho’s top target

Manchester United's reported interest in Aurélien Tchouaméni could inadvertently help Real Madrid secure one of Jose Mourinho's priority transfer targets this summer.

The French midfielder has faced growing uncertainty over his future at the Santiago Bernabéu following Mourinho's return to the club, with reports in Spain suggesting a major midfield reshuffle is underway ahead of the new season.

While Manchester United have been linked with Tchouaméni for several months, fresh claims from Spain indicate Real Madrid could actively welcome a sale if it helps facilitate another transfer.

According to comments reported in Spain, journalist Rubén Martín believes Real Madrid's ideal scenario would involve selling Tchouaméni and using the funds to pursue West Ham United midfielder Mateus Fernandes.

The Portuguese midfielder is reportedly viewed as Mourinho's preferred option as he reshapes the Real Madrid squad.

Martín explained: "What I'm saying is that if Real Madrid keeps Tchouaméni and Manchester United signs Mateus Fernandes, the player Mourinho really wanted was Mateus Fernandes. So, you're closing the door on yourself if you don't sell Tchouaméni to United. If you sell him, you'll recoup some money and be able to sign the player Mourinho wants."

The comments suggest Real Madrid's transfer strategy could become closely linked to Manchester United's summer business.

An interesting complication is that Manchester United have also been associated with Mateus Fernandes in recent months.

That means the Premier League club could potentially find themselves competing directly with Real Madrid for the same player while simultaneously being linked with one of Madrid's midfielders.

Having followed Manchester United's recruitment strategy in recent windows, the club's interest in younger, technically gifted midfielders would make Fernandes a logical target. However, Tchouaméni's experience at the highest level could also appeal to decision-makers at Old Trafford.

The situation leaves several possible outcomes on the table.

If United prioritise Fernandes, Real Madrid may be forced to keep Tchouaméni or identify an alternative route towards funding further additions.

If United move decisively for the Frenchman, Mourinho's side could gain the financial flexibility required to pursue Fernandes themselves.

Another Spanish journalist, Poli Rincón, suggested Manchester United are not the only English club monitoring Tchouaméni's situation.

According to Rincón, the midfielder continues to attract significant interest from across the Premier League, increasing the likelihood of a transfer if Real Madrid decide to make him available.

The 26-year-old remains highly regarded despite questions over his long-term role under Mourinho.

His blend of physicality, ball-winning ability and experience at both club and international level ensures there would be no shortage of potential suitors should Real Madrid open the door to a departure.

However, it remains too early to determine whether any formal negotiations have begun.

Much will depend on which midfielder Manchester United prioritise during the coming weeks. A move for Tchouaméni could strengthen Real Madrid's pursuit of Fernandes, while a direct approach for the West Ham player could complicate Mourinho's plans.

As transfer activity accelerates across Europe, the futures of both midfielders appear increasingly connected.

Should Manchester United pursue Aurélien Tchouaméni or focus their efforts on signing Mateus Fernandes instead?