Manchester United appear set to miss out on the signing of Aurelien Tchouameni, with multiple reliable reports confirming that the French midfielder has opted to extend his contract with Real Madrid instead of pursuing a move to Old Trafford.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has consistently highlighted Manchester United’s strong interest in bringing Tchouameni to Old Trafford during the summer transfer window.
Following Casemiro’s departure, and with Manuel Ugarte currently unavailable, United are in need of at least two high-quality midfield signings as manager Michael Carrick prepares his squad to compete in both the Premier League and the UEFA Champions League next season.
Speculation had been mounting that Manchester United were preparing a major offer for Tchouameni, who is currently representing France at the ongoing 2026 World Cup.
However, it has now been revealed that Tchouameni has chosen to remain at Real Madrid, agreeing to a contract extension that will keep him at the Santiago Bernabeu.
According to French outlet RMC Sport: “Back in training with the French national team this Wednesday after missing the Round of 16 match against Paraguay (1-0), Aurelien Tchouameni has other news.”
“As per our information, the midfielder, who came through the academy at Girondins de Bordeaux, will extend his contract with Real Madrid.”
“An agreement has been reached between the French international and Los Blancos for a new deal running until June 2031.”
Fabrizio Romano also confirmed that Tchouameni has agreed to sign a new contract with the Spanish giants.
Romano posted an update on X at 9:39 pm on July 8: “BREAKING: Aurelien Tchouameni to sign new deal at Real Madrid soon, all agreed on contract until June 2031! Real Madrid are ready to complete the paperwork soon, as Fabrice Hawkins and Pepe Alvarez reported. Man United deal never close due to high salary and Madrid not opening doors to exit.”
TalkSPORT journalist Ben Jacobs also backed up the reports, confirming that Tchouameni is staying at Real Madrid.
Posting on X at 9:44 pm on July 8, Jacobs wrote: “Aurelien Tchouameni has verbally agreed a Real Madrid extension keeping him at the club until 2031. Real had always been open to offering a new deal, but Jose Mourinho’s involvement was key in speeding up the agreement. First call by Fabrice Hawkins.”
Jacobs added later at 10:13 pm: “Understand Tchouameni is set to earn €13 million net per year at Real, making him one of the club’s top earners.”
While Manchester United supporters will be disappointed that Tchouameni will not be heading to Old Trafford, the club is closing in on another midfield addition, with Andrey Santos expected to join from Chelsea.
United have reportedly agreed a £50 million deal with Chelsea for Santos, who, according to Romano, is scheduled to undergo his medical examination on Thursday.
Romano explained on his YouTube channel: “The player is travelling to Manchester tomorrow for medical tests and contract signing. And so, Andrey Santos to Manchester United is a ‘here we go’. There is also a 10 per cent sell-on clause for Chelsea included in the deal. Santos will sign a five-year contract with an option for an additional year at Manchester United.”
