Manchester United are still searching for the final piece of their midfield rebuild this summer.
Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans completed their moves to Old Trafford last month, but INEOS remain determined to sign another midfielder.
Real Madrid star Aurelien Tchouameni has long been regarded as the dream signing but it now looks like United will have to turn their attention elsewhere.
Tchouameni reportedly agreed a new deal at Madrid a few weeks ago but no official confirmation has been made yet.
The La Liga club were previously interested in signing Manchester City star Rodri, a deal that could have opened the door for Tchouameni to leave.
According to The Athletic, Barcelona have now emerged as serious contenders to land Rodri in a stunning transfer.
To make matters even worse for United, the Man City midfielder reportedly favours a move to the Catalan giants.
Madrid are unlikely to sanction the sale of Tchouameni if they lose in their pursuit of Rodri.
Unfortunately for United, that is not the only setback they have suffered today.
Renowned journalist David Ornstein also revealed that Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba has sustained an ankle ligament injury and is now expected to miss the start of the 2026-27 campaign.
Either Tchouameni or Baleba would have represented a transformative addition for United.
It is time for INEOS to turn their attention firmly towards other targets, as they are currently very light in midfield.
Carrick has experimented with Mason Mount in a deeper midfield role throughout pre-season.
Although the England international has shown encouraging signs, his long-standing injury record means United cannot rely on him alone across a demanding campaign.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com
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