Manchester United’s Midfield Revolution: €90m Bid for Real Madrid Star Rejected as Red Devils Plot Future Targets
Manchester United have reportedly made a bold move to secure one of Real Madrid’s most highly-rated midfielders, submitting an eye-watering €90 million offer. The deal was said to consist of €70 million upfront, accompanied by €20 million in potential performance-related bonuses. However, according to dramatic reports from Spain, Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez did not merely reject the offer—he is claimed to have dismissed the idea outright, signaling that the player remains untouchable for the Spanish giants.
This attempt aligns with Manchester United’s well-documented strategy to revamp their midfield ahead of the 2026 season. With Casemiro expected to leave the club and Bruno Fernandes potentially exploring new opportunities if a lucrative offer arrives, United are preparing for a comprehensive overhaul. Even if Fernandes stays, the team’s midfield still lacks the energy and influence required to dominate games, prompting the club to actively seek transformative additions.
Spanish outlet Fichajes has suggested that Aurelien Tchouameni is among United’s top targets and that the club tested Real Madrid’s willingness to sell with their sizable bid. Yet, the 25-year-old French international is considered essential to Madrid’s long-term plans, leaving Pérez uninterested in negotiations. The immediate dismissal of the offer underscores just how crucial Tchouameni is to Real’s future vision.
Despite the sensational nature of these claims, it’s worth noting that Fichajes has a history of exaggerating transfer stories. While United certainly admire Tchouameni, more reliable reports indicate that the club has other priorities in their midfield rebuild. The Red Devils are reportedly targeting three Premier League talents: Carlos Baleba, Elliot Anderson, and Adam Wharton, whom they see as cornerstones for the team’s long-term strategy.
Baleba, currently at Brighton and valued at approximately £100 million, has emerged as a key target, and sources suggest he is warming to the idea of a move to Old Trafford. United plan to make a serious push for him during one of the 2026 transfer windows, although Brighton’s lofty valuation presents a significant hurdle. Meanwhile, Anderson and Wharton, who together could cost around £150 million, are also being pursued aggressively. Wharton, in particular, faces interest from rival clubs, but United remain determined to secure all three as part of a comprehensive midfield reconstruction.
Beyond the Premier League, United are keeping tabs on promising international talents. A young Belgian star at Ajax has caught their eye, and they are also monitoring Bournemouth’s forward Antoine Semenyo, although Liverpool appears to have the upper hand in that pursuit. These moves highlight United’s wider ambition to reshape not just their midfield but the entire spine of the squad for sustained success.
One thing is clear: Manchester United are fully committed to building a new, dynamic midfield capable of competing at the highest level. While some transfer rumours may be exaggerated, the club’s strategy and pursuit of young, talented players demonstrate a determined and calculated approach to future success.
