Manchester United’s Midfield Overhaul: €90 Million Bid for Real Madrid Star Rejected as Focus Shifts to Premier League Targets
Manchester United have reportedly made a bold attempt to secure one of Real Madrid’s most coveted midfielders, submitting a staggering €90 million offer that combined an upfront €70 million with €20 million in potential performance-related bonuses. However, according to reports from Spain, the bid was not merely declined — Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez is said to have dismissed it outright, signaling that the French midfielder is untouchable and not available for transfer under any circumstances.
This move reflects United’s well-documented ambition to rejuvenate their midfield ahead of the 2026 season. With Casemiro’s departure seemingly inevitable and the potential exit of Bruno Fernandes should a lucrative offer arrive, Old Trafford is preparing for a significant rebuild. Even if Fernandes remains with the club, United’s current midfield still lacks the creativity and dynamism required to compete at the highest level, prompting a search for impactful new signings.
Spanish outlet Fichajes has claimed that Aurelien Tchouameni was at the heart of United’s approach, emphasizing the club’s determination to test Real Madrid’s willingness to negotiate. Nevertheless, Madrid consider the 25-year-old French international a cornerstone of their long-term strategy, and Pérez reportedly made it abundantly clear that no negotiations would take place, reinforcing Tchouameni’s status as a non-negotiable asset.
While these claims have generated buzz, Fichajes’ reputation for sensationalized transfer rumours raises questions about their reliability. More credible sources indicate that United’s primary focus may lie elsewhere, targeting midfield reinforcements within the Premier League itself. Reports suggest that the club is keen on three specific talents: Carlos Baleba, Elliot Anderson, and Adam Wharton. Baleba, valued by Brighton at around £100 million, is said to be increasingly open to a move, with United planning to pursue him in one of the 2026 transfer windows despite the challenge of his steep price tag.
Anderson and Wharton are also seen as vital to United’s strategic overhaul, with their combined cost estimated at £150 million. Both players are attracting attention from rival clubs, yet Manchester United remain resolute in their intention to secure all three, viewing them as essential building blocks for a revitalized midfield. Beyond these, the club is reportedly monitoring a promising young Belgian midfielder at Ajax, as well as Bournemouth forward Antoine Semenyo, though Liverpool are reportedly leading that particular chase.
Despite the swirl of rumours and speculation, one message is clear: Manchester United are committed to transforming their midfield, laying the groundwork for a team capable of competing at the highest level in the years ahead. Whether through marquee bids abroad or targeted domestic signings, the club’s strategy underscores a long-term vision to restore dominance at the heart of the pitc
