Man Utd Get Tchouameni Hope - But Price Tag Poses Problem

Real Madrid are ready to open the door for Aurelien Tchouameni to leave this summer, and Manchester United are listening - but the financial side could be a dealbreaker. According to sources, the La Liga champions are willing to discuss Tchouameni's future with United as they step up their pursuit of Rodri at Manchester City. insider sources reported Friday that Real are working on a deal for Rodri, who captained Spain to World Cup glory this month, though formal talks have not yet started with City. Tchouameni only extended his contract until 2031 earlier this month, yet Real's desire to land Rodri means they would entertain fresh negotiations. United have previously held exploratory talks over the France international, who is one of their top midfield targets. However, the potential cost - Real's asking price and Tchouameni's wage demands - runs counter to United's plan to spend wisely this summer, making a move difficult. Michael Carrick's side are also looking for a left-sided winger and a back-up striker for Benjamin Sesko, so controlling the budget is crucial. sources reported Thursday that United are considering alternatives like Bournemouth's Alex Scott, Roma's Manu Kone and Botafogo's Danilo Santos. The recruitment team led by Christopher Vivell have been patient in the market, focusing on value - a strategy that worked last summer when they signed Bryan Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha and Sesko for reasonable fees. United refused to get drawn into bidding wars for Elliot Anderson and Mateus Fernandes this summer, both of whom later moved to Manchester City and Tottenham respectively. So far, Carrick's squad has added Andrey Santos, Youri Tielemans and Karl Darlow ahead of his first full season in charge after being appointed permanent manager in May. Real Madrid, meanwhile, are trying to sign RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande, according to insider sources's insider, alongside their bid for Rodri. insider reports that Los Blancos have had a €100 million (£85.4m) proposal rejected by Leipzig, who want to keep the Ivory Coast winger.