Real Madrid are reportedly considering the sale of midfielder Aurélien Tchouaméni as they step up efforts to sign Manchester City star Rodri, the 2026 FIFA World Cup Golden Ball winner.
According to a report by Madrid Universal on Friday, July 24, 2026, Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez is increasingly determined to bring the Spain international back to La Liga following his outstanding performances at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Rodri, who was named the tournament’s Golden Ball winner, has emerged as Madrid’s preferred option to strengthen the club’s midfield. The Spanish champions reportedly view him as the ideal player to add balance, leadership, and experience to the squad.
However, securing Rodri’s signature is expected to be a difficult task. The report states that the midfielder’s salary demands, coupled with the substantial transfer fee Manchester City would likely require, make the deal one of the club’s most expensive potential signings.
To help finance the move, Real Madrid are reportedly prepared to sell a key member of their first-team squad during the current transfer window.
According to the report, France international Aurélien Tchouaméni has emerged as the leading candidate to leave the Santiago Bernabéu.
The 26-year-old midfielder has attracted strong interest from Manchester United, who are said to view him as a priority target as they seek to strengthen their midfield ahead of the new season.
Manchester United have reportedly made formal enquiries about Tchouaméni’s availability, with the French international believed to be valued at around €80 million.
Real Madrid are reportedly open to considering his sale if it generates the funds needed to pursue a move for Rodri.
The report also notes that Tchouaméni had previously been expected to sign a contract extension with Real Madrid after reportedly reaching a verbal agreement over a new deal.
However, the renewal has yet to be finalized, a delay that has reportedly left the door open for Manchester United to test Madrid’s resolve before the midfielder commits his long-term future to the Spanish club.
Real Madrid’s determination to secure Rodri’s services could ultimately persuade the club to part ways with Tchouaméni as part of its long-term plans to reshape the midfield.
With pre-season preparations set to intensify in the coming weeks, the report suggests that any potential transfer involving Tchouaméni could have a significant impact on the transfer strategies of both Real Madrid and Manchester United.
For Real Madrid, the sale of the French midfielder could provide the financial flexibility required to pursue one of the world’s most highly rated defensive midfielders. For Manchester United, it could present an opportunity to sign a proven international with experience at the highest level should negotiations progress.
