Manchester United could revive their interest in Aurélien Tchouaméni in January if the midfielder’s uncertain position at Real Madrid develops into a transfer opportunity.
The France international was reportedly one of United’s leading midfield targets during the summer, although no deal materialised. The club instead added Carlos Baleba, Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos to strengthen the position.
However, reports from Spain suggest Tchouaméni’s ongoing fitness problems have created frustration at the Bernabéu, with new Real Madrid manager José Mourinho yet to select him this season. Fichajes claims the situation could leave the 26-year-old available if the Spanish side decide to listen to offers during the January transfer window.
There is, though, evidence that Real Madrid remain willing to be patient with the midfielder. Mourinho said recently that he did not want to rush Tchouaméni back from injury, insisting: “I don’t want him to come in, go out, come in, go out because of injuries.” AS reported that the Portuguese coach regards him as an important part of his plans. ([as.com](https://as.com/futbol/primera/sin-prisas-con-tchouameni-f202608-n/))
Manchester United continue to monitor Tchouaméni
United’s interest in Tchouaméni is not new. BBC Sport reported in April that he was among the midfielders being monitored by the club as they assessed options for a priority position. His contract with Real Madrid is understood to run until 2028. ([bbc.co.uk](https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/articles/cvg0y9vg60po))
The midfielder joined Real Madrid from Monaco in 2022 and has established himself as a defensive presence in the Spanish side’s midfield. The club’s official records show he made 49 appearances during the 2025-26 season, starting 33 matches. ([realmadrid.com](https://www.realmadrid.com/es-ES/futbol/primer-equipo-masculino/plantilla/aurelien-tchouameni))
Real Madrid would reportedly seek a fee of up to €100 million for Tchouaméni, a figure that could make any January move difficult. United would also have to decide whether to invest heavily in another midfielder after committing significant resources to the position during the summer.
A mid-season transfer would depend on Tchouaméni’s recovery, Mourinho’s assessment of his role and the needs of both clubs. For now, the player remains part of Real Madrid’s squad, but any further uncertainty over his fitness or place in the team could prompt Manchester United to reassess their interest.
