Real Madrid ready to sacrifice Aurelien Tchouameni as Rodri chase opens door for Manchester United

Real Madrid are reportedly prepared to sell Aurelien Tchouameni as they step up plans to finance a blockbuster move for Manchester City star Rodri before the summer transfer window closes.

The Spanish giants have made the World Cup-winning midfielder their priority target after his outstanding performances for Spain, culminating in him being named the tournament’s best player following their triumph over Argentina in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final.

Rodri, who has just one year remaining on his Manchester City contract, is valued at around £85 million. However, the 30-year-old is expected to miss the opening weeks of the new Premier League season after undergoing minor surgery, a factor that has done little to cool Real Madrid’s interest.

With the deal expected to require a significant financial commitment, Madrid could be forced to offload Tchouameni to generate funds and balance their spending.

Manchester United monitoring Tchouameni opportunity

Real Madrid’s willingness to listen to offers could hand Manchester United a major opportunity in their search for a defensive midfielder.

According to Samuel Luckhurst of The Sun, United are among the clubs interested in the French international, who is valued at approximately £68 million. Michael Carrick is also understood to be keen on bringing the 26-year-old to Old Trafford.

United have already strengthened their midfield this summer with the arrivals of Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans, but the club remain eager to recruit a specialist holding midfielder capable of shielding the backline.

Tchouameni’s experience at the highest level, combined with his physical presence and composure in possession, makes him an attractive option as United continue reshaping their squad ahead of the new campaign.

Rodri pursuit could reshape Madrid’s midfield

Real Madrid had initially intended to retain Tchouameni, but the pursuit of Rodri appears to have altered those plans.

Jose Mourinho is determined to bring the Spain captain to the Santiago Bernabeu, and Madrid’s hierarchy could sanction Tchouameni’s departure if it helps unlock a deal for one of world football’s most influential midfielders.

Should the Frenchman leave, it would represent one of the biggest midfield transfers of the summer, while providing Manchester United with a realistic chance of landing a player long admired across Europe.