Manchester United still have work to do in the summer transfer window ahead of their Premier League opener at Hull City on August 22
Aurelien Tchouameni of France reacts
Aurelien Tchouameni has been linked with a summer move to Man United(Image: Getty Images)
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Barcelona could be set to deal Manchester United with another transfer blow amid their apparent interest in Rodri - a move which would make Aurelien Tchouameni's switch to Old Trafford less likely. It comes after the Catalan giants opted not to exercise their permanent option to sign Marcus Rashford, as United missed out on the chance to raise some much-needed funds.
Midfield has been a major focus at M16 after the departure of Casemiro, and with Manuel Ugarte looking set for an extended period out injured. Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans have joined, with a third midfield signing potentially on the way this summer.
One player being linked is Real Madrid and France star Tchouameni. The Manchester Evening News understands that United ran background checks on the 26-year-old several months ago and are interested in a deal if he becomes available.
But it may be rivals Manchester City that have a decisive role in any successful move by Old Trafford chiefs for the Frenchman's signature. Real are reportedly looking to sign Spanish World Cup winner Rodri as they seek star power in Jose Mourinho's second spell at the club.
However, Spanish publication Sport now claim that Real's fierce rivals Barca could look to rival Los Blancos for Rodri's signature. If Hansi Flick's team do sign him - it is unlikely that Real would allow Tchouameni to leave.
That would follow Barca's decision not to pay United £26m for Rashford after his successful loan spell last season, despite having the option to do so.
It was hoped that the forward's sale, which will represent pure profit due to his homegrown status, might mean Carrick will have more funds to play with in the transfer window.
But the 28-year-old is now set to return to United for pre-season training later this month after spending the 2025/26 campaign on loan in Catalonia. During his time at the Camp Nou, Rashford impressed, scoring 14 goals and adding 14 assists in 49 appearances across all competitions.
Marcus Rashford's Manchester United future is still uncertain
Marcus Rashford's Manchester United future is still uncertain(Image: Getty Images)
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Reds head coach Michael Carrick is poised to give Rashford another chance to find a route back into the United XI, but the club have still not ruled out selling him before the end of the transfer window.
The Reds value Rashford at around £30m and would prefer not to offload him to a Premier League rival.
That stance could therefore suit Fenerbahce, with the Turkish Super Lig side prepared to splash the cash on Rashford, according to The Sun.
He is said to be on a three-man shortlist that includes Crystal Palace's Ismaila Sarr and AC Milan's Rafael Leao, both of whom are thought to be wanted by United this summer.