Reports circulating today claim that Manchester United have reached an agreement in principle to sign a prolific European striker valued at around £70 million, a forward said to have recorded 31 goals and 14 assists this season. According to these rumours, the deal would make him Rúben Amorim’s first signing of the January window, though no official confirmation has been issued by the clubs involved.
In addition, Spanish outlet Fichajes suggests that Manchester United are pushing hard to secure a deal for Real Madrid midfielder Aurélien Tchouaméni.
United’s current midfield options include Casemiro, Manuel Ugarte, and Kobbie Mainoo, with Bruno Fernandes often deployed deeper than his preferred advanced role. Although Mason Mount can also play in a double-pivot, he too is more naturally suited to operating as a No.10.
With Amorim favouring Casemiro and Fernandes as his primary pairing, Mainoo has struggled for regular minutes and is reportedly open to a January move to continue his development. Ugarte, meanwhile, has struggled to impress when selected, and Casemiro’s contract expires at the end of the season — prompting United to consider a full midfield rebuild.
According to the Spanish report, United have identified Tchouaméni as a major target and have already submitted a £79m proposal (£62m guaranteed plus £17m in add-ons). Real Madrid, however, reportedly view the Frenchman as non-transferable and rejected the opening offer. Tchouaméni, who faced criticism last year, has become a key starter under Xabi Alonso this season.
Even after the rejection, United are said to be persistent and are attempting to convince the player that a move to Old Trafford would be a defining step in his career.
The 25-year-old, standing 6’2″, is primarily a defensive midfielder but can operate box-to-box and even fill in at centre-back. His athleticism, technical ability, aerial strength, and range of passing make him a highly attractive option for Premier League clubs.
Should United eventually persuade Real Madrid to sell — and should the player accept — Tchouaméni would be viewed as a major addition to Amorim’s project.
