Manchester United’s hopes of securing Aurelien Tchouameni for Michael Carrick’s squad this summer have collapsed, with reports indicating that Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho was instrumental in stopping the move.
Tchouameni has been a long-term target for Manchester United, with transfer expert Fabrizio Romano frequently reporting that the Real Madrid and France defensive midfielder is viewed as a dream signing by the club’s co-owners, INEOS.
In recent days, Manchester United intensified their efforts to sign Tchouameni, with rumours circulating that a five-year contract had been offered to the 26-year-old star.
The Premier League side were reportedly prepared to make a significant financial commitment to land the French international, who is currently playing for his country in the ongoing 2026 World Cup final.
However, late on Wednesday evening, it was revealed that Tchouameni had agreed to a contract extension with Real Madrid, keeping him at the Santiago Bernabeu until 2031, effectively ending United’s pursuit.
French outlet RMC Sport reported: “Back in training with the French national team this Wednesday after missing the Round of 16 clash against Paraguay (1-0), Aurelien Tchouameni has some other news.”
“According to our sources, the midfielder, who developed through the ranks at Girondins de Bordeaux, will extend his stay at Real Madrid.”
“An agreement has been reached between the French international and Los Blancos for a new contract lasting until June 2031.”
At 9:39 pm on July 8, Fabrizio Romano confirmed on social media: “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 signing soon, as reported by @FabriceHawkins and @pepealvarezzz. Manchester United deal was never close due to high salary demands and Madrid’s refusal to open the exit door.”
TalkSPORT journalist Ben Jacobs also corroborated that Tchouameni would sign a contract extension with Real Madrid.
Posting at 9:44 pm on July 8, Jacobs stated: “Aurelien Tchouameni has verbally agreed to a Real Madrid extension keeping him at the club until 2031. Real were always open to offering a new deal, but Jose Mourinho’s input accelerated the agreement process. First reported by @FabriceHawkins.”
Jacobs later added at 10:13 pm: “Tchouameni is set to earn €13 million net annually at Real Madrid, placing him among the club’s top earners.”
It has now been revealed that new Real Madrid boss Jose Mourinho played a decisive role in convincing Tchouameni to stay at the Bernabeu.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Romano explained: “Tchouameni will earn a very high salary at Real Madrid. Everything has been finalized. And let me mention Jose Mourinho. Behind the scenes, Mourinho pushed strongly to keep Tchouameni. He values players with fighting spirit, top mentality, and strong physical presence. He wanted someone like Tchouameni in his squad and made it clear he didn’t want him to leave.”
According to ESPN, “A conversation between Jose Mourinho and Tchouameni was crucial in the player’s decision to stay at Real Madrid and sign his new contract. The new manager assured him that he would be a key part of his plans, and Tchouameni reaffirmed his desire to remain in Madrid.”
