Rio Ferdinand has predicted that Manchester United will attempt to sign Real Madrid midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni this summer after losing out to Tottenham Hotspur in the race to sign West Ham's Mateus Fernandes.
Fernandes deal collapses
United had held extensive talks to sign Fernandes, and the 21-year-old midfielder had prioritised a move to Old Trafford. However, Spurs appear to have won the race after agreeing to pay West Ham's £85 million asking price. United were not willing to meet that valuation and are now exploring alternatives.
West Ham signed Fernandes from Southampton a year ago for £38 million plus £4 million in add-ons, making the potential £85 million sale a significant profit.
Tchouameni emerges as target
Among United's midfield targets is Tchouameni, who is currently with France's squad for the World Cup. Reports this month have claimed that Real Madrid could be open to selling the 26-year-old, whom they signed from Monaco for £85 million four years ago.
Ferdinand has backed United to make a move for Tchouameni and believes his former club are 'holding the money back' for their top targets.
'I've woke up to the news that Fernandes from West Ham could be going to Spurs, 80, 80 million, huge money, it's thrown me,' Ferdinand said on his YouTube channel. 'I think Manchester United and Arsenal have made it very clear, they have a stance in this window, they're not going to overpay for people who they don't feel they should.'
'You know what, I'm going to put my neck on the line, I think Man United are holding up their money, they're holding the money back for one man and that's Tchouameni. If he becomes available in this market, Man United are not going to miss, they can't afford to miss that one. They may let another couple slip through the bag if the price isn't right.'
Impact on United's transfer strategy
United's reluctance to meet West Ham's valuation for Fernandes signals a disciplined approach to spending this summer. With Tchouameni potentially available, the club could redirect funds towards a marquee signing. The French international has been a key player for Real Madrid but could be surplus to requirements if the Spanish giants look to balance their books.
