Manchester United are actively pursuing an ambitious midfield overhaul this summer, with Real Madrid’s Aurelien Tchouameni and Bournemouth’s Alex Scott remaining key names on their target list. The club continues to explore various options as they aim to strengthen multiple areas of the squad.

United evaluate new options after losing out on Fernandes

Following Mateus Fernandes’ £85 million transfer to Tottenham earlier this week, United are reassessing their midfield priorities. As reported by Sky Sports, both Tchouameni and Scott remain primary targets, alongside potential alternatives such as Felix Nmecha, Ayyoub Bouaddi, and Sander Berge.

Madrid’s midfield plans affect Tchouameni’s future

Real Madrid’s own plans to reshape their midfield have complicated United’s pursuit of Tchouameni. Although the Spanish champions value the French international highly, they have confirmed they will not be pursuing Chelsea’s Enzo Fernandez. Meanwhile, Madrid continue to monitor Manchester City’s Rodri, but City are determined to retain their captain and are working on a new deal for him.

Bournemouth determined to retain Alex Scott

If Tchouameni proves unattainable, United have identified Bournemouth’s Alex Scott as a key alternative. The talented midfielder, who narrowly missed out on Thomas Tuchel’s England squad for the 2026 World Cup, is highly regarded by the Cherries. Bournemouth have made it clear they are not prepared to sanction his departure this summer and are working on a new contract to fend off interest from top clubs.

Despite interest from Old Trafford, Bournemouth are reluctant to lose any of their core players as they look to build upon a promising season. Manchester United, however, view Scott as a long-term solution to their midfield depth challenges.

Bouaddi and Nmecha also on United’s radar

United scouts have been monitoring the World Cup in North America, where Lille’s Ayyoub Bouaddi has impressed. The 18-year-old Moroccan midfielder has been one of the standout performers for his national team and is set to feature in their round-of-16 clash against Canada. Reports suggest United have conducted additional checks on the teenager this week.

In addition to Bouaddi, the club’s extended shortlist also features Borussia Dortmund’s Felix Nmecha and Fulham’s Sander Berge, providing a range of possible options depending on transfer market conditions.

Summerville remains the top target for attacking reinforcement

While bolstering the midfield remains the primary objective, Manchester United continue to prioritise Crysencio Summerville for the left-wing role. The club have initiated informal discussions with West Ham regarding the Netherlands international, though competition from other Premier League sides could complicate negotiations. The situation is expected to become clearer in the coming weeks.

United may look to finance the deal by selling Marcus Rashford, who is due to return to Old Trafford after the post-World Cup break. However, his return could be delayed until mid-August depending on England’s progression in the tournament. Tottenham are also pursuing Summerville, prompting United to act quickly to avoid another setback. Nevertheless, there remains a possibility that Rashford could stay on as a squad player under manager Michael Carrick.