French legend Marcel Desailly has urged Real Madrid midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni to make the switch to Manchester United during the summer transfer window.
Tchouameni has been a key player for Los Blancos over the past four seasons, but his future has been put into doubt after Jose Mourinho’s return as manager.
The Portuguese tactician is keen on landing a marquee creative midfielder, and Madrid seem open to parting ways with Tchouameni to free up funds and wages.
Tchouameni has yet to give the green light for a transfer, but it has been claimed that United are prepared to break the bank to bring him to Old Trafford.
In an interview with Sports Casting, Desailly said he is confident Tchouameni ‘would move’ to the Premier League and insisted that United are still a ‘massive club’.
The former French defender added he would encourage his compatriot to make the switch.
He said: “I’m sure Aurelien Tchouameni would move to the Premier League, and Manchester United is still a massive club; a massive name. He had a difficult season, but at least he shows leadership.
“That’s why when you talk about Konate or Tchouameni, I’ll always choose Tchouameni because of his desire. And he also wears my number 8 on his back, so I love him for this! I believe that he has that little bit of leadership and the desire to bring the team all together.
“So it could be a good move for him, just like when Raphaël Varane swapped Madrid for Manchester back in the day. So why not? I would encourage him to go for it and try the Premier League.”
Tchouameni would be a statement signing for United
The 26-year-old has been a pivotal figure for Madrid since his initial £68 million move from Monaco.
Madrid had a difficult 2025/26 season, finishing without a major trophy, but Tchouameni still performed impressively in the heart of the midfield.
The Frenchman completed 92 percent of his passes. He also won 68 percent of his overall duels alongside two tackles and four recoveries per game.
Aside from defensive involvements, he possesses a tireless work rate and fantastic mobility, and would provide an upgrade in the number six role at United.
As things stand, Tchouameni is not contemplating an exit, but United could convince him to change his stance with Madrid pushing to sell him.
If he opens the door for a transfer, United can expect to pay a premium fee of at least £100m, given he is one of the world’s best in his position.
Stats from Sofascore
