Manchester United’s quest to secure their ideal midfield reinforcement, Aurelien Tchouameni, is proving to be far from straightforward, according to the latest reports.

Following unsuccessful attempts to land Elliot Anderson, Sandro Tonali, and Mateus Fernandes, INEOS initially turned their attention to Bournemouth’s Alex Scott. However, even that approach now appears increasingly uncertain.

As a result, the Red Devils are widening their search beyond Premier League-tested options, identifying the Real Madrid star as their ultimate target.

The 20-time English league champions are reportedly ready to make a formal move for the French midfielder, but only if he agrees to lower his salary demands.

According to The Sun, the France international is requesting wages comparable to those of Casemiro, the player he is expected to replace in the squad.

The Brazilian midfielder was earning approximately £350,000 per week, a figure that contributed significantly to INEOS’ decision not to activate his contract extension as part of efforts to streamline the club’s wage structure.

United’s hesitation is not limited to the salary aspect, as they have already indicated that they are unwilling to meet the 26-year-old’s financial expectations in full.

Complicating the situation further, new Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho is eager to retain the Champions League-winning midfielder, making negotiations even more challenging for United.

“Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho wants to keep Aurelien Tchouameni, who would command a similar transfer fee and salary to Casemiro, who departed Real for United in a £60 million up-front deal on wages of £350,000 a week in 2022.

“United baulked at the asking prices of Anderson and Fernandes and remain determined to reduce their wage bill following the exits of Casemiro and Jadon Sancho.”

At this stage, the deadlock seems likely to be broken only if United agree to meet the midfielder’s financial terms, especially within today’s inflated transfer market.

Otherwise, the Red Devils risk losing Tchouameni to Chelsea, where manager Xabi Alonso is reportedly keen on reuniting with the Frenchman. The decision now rests with INEOS.