Manchester United eye French star for summer move

April 23, 2026 Oliver Obel

Manchester United’s planning for the summer transfer window is increasingly focused on reshaping their midfield, as the club shifts attention away from the attacking and goalkeeping issues that dominated last year’s recruitment drive.

According to BBC Sport, United are now exploring a range of options to strengthen the center of the pitch, combining interest in Premier League-based players with a renewed look at established talent abroad.

Among the domestic names under consideration are Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson, Brighton’s Carlos Baleba and Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton. All three have been monitored closely, in part because United’s recent additions from within the league—such as Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo—have adapted quickly, reinforcing the appeal of players already familiar with English football.

However, not every target is seen as a clean tactical fit. Concerns have reportedly been raised internally about how Wharton would slot into the current setup, given similarities in profile to Kobbie Mainoo, who is close to agreeing a new long-term contract.

That has encouraged the club to look more seriously at options beyond the Premier League.

One player back under consideration is Real Madrid midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni. United tracked the France international before his move from Monaco in 2022, but he ultimately chose Madrid, where he has since developed into a key part of their midfield.

Tchouameni, 26, remains under contract until 2028, and BBC Sport reports that Madrid would be open to extending his deal. Still, uncertainty around the Spanish club’s summer plans—following a season expected to end without major silverware—could influence their stance if a substantial offer arrives.

While recruitment planning continues, United’s performances on the pitch may also shape their transfer strategy. A strong run of results has put them within reach of Champions League qualification, with a win over Brentford leaving them close to securing a return to Europe’s top competition after two years away.

Off the field, potential squad changes could give the club more financial room to maneuver. High-earning players such as Casemiro and Jadon Sancho are expected to move on, which would ease pressure on the wage bill.

There is also an unresolved situation involving Marcus Rashford. Barcelona hold an option to sign him for around €30 million before mid-June, a decision that could further impact United’s budget and transfer priorities.

Taken together, those sporting and financial factors are likely to determine whether United can seriously pursue a deal for a player of Tchouameni’s profile as they look to rebalance their squad ahead of next season.

Source: BBC Sport