Manchester United is reportedly exploring options for a new midfielder, with Eduardo Camavinga of Real Madrid among the players being considered. However, Camavinga has expressed a desire to remain at Real Madrid and compete for his position, according to football journalist Fabrizio Romano.
Romano indicated that Camavinga is keen to continue his career at Real Madrid, particularly under manager José Mourinho. The player is confident in his ability to earn the trust of the experienced manager during the upcoming season.
Camavinga’s stance and Real Madrid’s position
Despite Camavinga’s preference to stay, reports suggest that Real Madrid does not consider him an untouchable member of their squad. One report indicates that Real Madrid might be open to selling Camavinga for a fee between €50-60m (£42-51m). This potential sale could create space for Rodri in their squad, especially after Real Madrid already signed Bernardo Silva and could reunite him with his former Manchester City teammate at Mourinho’s request.
Camavinga, who can also play as a left-back, is reportedly interested in revitalising his career under Mourinho. His message regarding his desire to stay at Real Madrid has been consistent over several months.
However, it remains unclear whether Mourinho specifically wants Camavinga in his plans. Romano noted that if Real Madrid decides to offload the player, the situation could change, with the Premier League potentially becoming his next destination and Manchester United emerging as a frontrunner.
United’s midfield targets and approaches
Manchester United has been monitoring Real Madrid’s midfielders, including Camavinga and Aurélien Tchouaméni, for some time. The club is seeking to add a third midfielder to their squad but is reportedly unwilling to spend excessively, regardless of a player’s influence or skill.
United has already strengthened its midfield this summer with the additions of Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans, spending a combined £85m on the pair. The club is now aiming to secure a hard-working midfielder to complete their squad rebuild in that position.
Before engaging with the agents of AS Roma midfielder Manu Koné, United had also held discussions with Camavinga’s agents to understand his situation. Romano confirmed these conversations, stating that United is still searching for a defensive midfielder.
Tchouaméni was initially identified as a primary target. While some reports suggested Real Madrid might sell Tchouaméni, prompting a new enquiry from United, Romano stated that Madrid has rejected United’s attempts to sign the 26-year-old, intending to keep him by finalising a new contract.
United also approached Bournemouth star Alex Scott, receiving encouragement when he rejected a new deal from his club. However, Bournemouth maintains that Scott is not for sale this summer, irrespective of his contract status. These developments have reportedly led to Camavinga, Sander Berge, and Koné emerging as targets for Michael Carrick’s side.
Among these three, INEOS reportedly shows particular interest in Camavinga and Fulham’s Berge. United has a long-standing interest in Berge, having previously tracked his performances at Sheffield United and Burnley. Berge is reportedly available for £40m.
Regarding Koné, a French newspaper claimed that United officials have contacted Roma. An update from an Italian outlet indicates that United has agreed personal terms with Koné. United is reportedly preparing an initial bid of €50m/£42m for Koné, while Roma is said to be seeking €60m/£51m.
Real Madrid is not expected to make a decision on Camavinga’s future until closer to the transfer deadline.
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Source: theweek.in
