Could Liverpool Reignite Transfer Push?

Real Madrid midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni has been linked with a sensational move to Man United, which would surely pique Liverpool’s long-held interest.

Tchouameni is nearing the end of his fourth season at Real Madrid, and with his contract set to expire in 2028, Man United have emerged as suitors.

That is according to the Telegraph‘s James Ducker, who reports that the 26-year-old is on their shortlist to replace the outgoing Casemiro this summer.

It would suggest that an approach has at least been encouraged, with any move for Tchouameni depending on Real Madrid‘s “need to sell” in order to finance a deal for Man City‘s Rodri.

But if the France international does become available it seems likely that he would return to the radar for United’s historic rivals.

Liverpool agreed terms with Tchouameni in 2022

Liverpool were widely reported to have agreed personal terms with Tchouameni as he weighed up offers from Anfield and the Bernabeu ahead of leaving Monaco in 2022.

He eventually chose Real and signed a six-year contract after moving in a deal worth up to £85 million, with Liverpool waiting until the following summer to add to their midfield ranks with five signings.

Dominik Szoboszlai, Alexis Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch have all established themselves as key players, Wataru Endo is a favourite among fans and there are high hopes for Trey Nyoni, but there remains a shortage in midfield almost three years on.

Jordan Henderson, Fabinho, James Milner, Naby Keita and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain all left in summer 2023 and Arne Slot has relied upon seven midfielders this season while also using Szoboszlai, Endo, Curtis Jones and Florian Wirtz in other roles.

At least one new midfielder will be required in the next transfer window, particularly as Endo and Jones could both leave and there are now question marks over Mac Allister’s future.

And while Crystal Palace‘s Adam Wharton appears a credible target, Liverpool’s known interest in Tchouameni could make his situation worth keeping an eye on if a move away from Real develops.

Tchouameni has played 190 times in his four seasons in Madrid so far, establishing himself as a staple of the side while typically operating as a No. 6.

Explaining his decision to turn down Liverpool, he told Le Parisien in 2022: “The first to come forward was Liverpool, we had discussions. Then Real arrived.

“And in my head everything was clear. It was Real and not another.

“It’s the biggest club in the world. If you want to accomplish great things, to mark the history of your sport, there is no better.

“So I didn’t hesitate for a second. I told my agent: as long as there is interest, we do everything to go there. I was already convinced.”