Manchester United are reportedly prepared to make a huge financial commitment to secure their primary midfield target as INEOS continues its squad overhaul under interim manager Michael Carrick. After missing out on several major targets earlier in the transfer window, the Red Devils have now turned their attention towards making a marquee signing from Real Madrid.

United ready to increase transfer budget

Reports suggest that Manchester United are willing to exceed the €100 million ($85m/$114m) mark they previously reached for Mateus Fernandes in their pursuit of a ‘dream signing’ for the midfield. When negotiating for Fernandes, United had agreed to meet the £85 million ($113m) valuation, although the deal included add-ons. The club was ready to guarantee £80 million upfront, with the remaining £5 million tied to performance-related bonuses.

This cautious approach ultimately allowed Tottenham Hotspur to steal a march, as they offered a fully guaranteed £85 million package. With other targets such as Sandro Tonali and Elliot Anderson no longer available, United and INEOS now understand that they may need to spend big to avoid being left short-handed in midfield this season.

Tchouameni emerges as top priority

According to journalist Fabrizio Romano, United’s next two midfield targets are Alex Scott and Aurelien Tchouameni. Reports from The Athletic claim that the club are "fully prepared to secure a deal for the 26-year-old French international" should Real Madrid signal their willingness to sell. The Spanish champions are reportedly keen to generate funds through sales before making new signings.

Recent reports from Spain indicate that Manchester United are ready to offer a significant amount, exceeding €100 million, to bring Tchouameni to Old Trafford. As one Spanish report stated: "In Tchouameni’s case, the team that desperately wants him is Manchester United. This interest isn’t new, but the English club is reportedly prepared to offer a substantial sum, over €100 million, to sign him."

Seen as Casemiro’s long-term replacement

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Fabrizio Romano confirmed that United view the ex-Monaco midfielder as an ideal fit. He explained, "What I have always said, and what remains true, is that internally at Manchester United, Tchouameni has always been seen as the perfect signing for midfield. A top player with an elite mentality and world-class ability — they consider Tchouameni as the perfect replacement for Casemiro."

However, despite United’s strong interest, several major challenges remain before any move can take shape. Romano detailed, "The first issue is the salary. Tchouameni earns a very high wage at Real Madrid, and Manchester United have already made it clear to those close to the player that the only way a transfer could happen is if he agrees to a different salary structure. That’s the first stumbling block."

Real Madrid’s stance remains firm

The other significant obstacle lies with Real Madrid’s position on a potential sale. Manager Jose Mourinho is said to view Tchouameni as an essential part of his plans, making any negotiation extremely complicated despite United’s readiness to spend big. Romano added, "At the moment, Man Utd have not received any green light from Real Madrid to begin negotiations for Tchouameni. They have not received any indication from Madrid that they are ready to sit down and discuss terms."

While Tchouameni continues to be regarded as a key figure in Madrid’s long-term project, a massive offer from United could test the club’s resolve. Romano concluded, "Could Tchouameni be the dream signing for Man Utd? Absolutely. He is a player they admire and want, but the situation is complex because of both the salary demands and Real Madrid’s decision on his future."