Tchouameni and Scott on United's Radar as Midfield Search Intensifies

Manchester United's hunt for midfield reinforcements has shifted focus towards two new targets, with Real Madrid's Aurélien Tchouameni and Bournemouth's Alex Scott emerging as the club's primary options.

The Old Trafford outfit already have Ederson Silva lined up from Atalanta, but INEOS hierarchy are determined to bolster the engine room further. With Casemiro having departed and Manuel Ugarte sidelined by injury, Michael Carrick's side need additional depth ahead of their Champions League campaign.

The Red Devils' previous shortlist has evaporated in quick succession. Elliot Anderson joined Manchester City from Nottingham Forest—a move United baulked at due to the £116m asking price for the England international. Mateus Fernandes completed a switch to Tottenham from West Ham, whilst Newcastle have wrapped up a deal for Sandro Tonali. All three were on United's wanted list.

According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, the club now view Tchouameni and Scott as their best remaining options, with both internally rated as "fantastic" solutions to their midfield puzzle.

However, significant obstacles remain. Real Madrid have shown no inclination to part with Tchouameni, and his wage demands present another stumbling block for United's financial planning.

Scott presents a more realistic target, though hardly a straightforward one. The Bournemouth midfielder has attracted attention from multiple suitors this summer, including Arsenal. The Cherries are intent on retaining their prized asset and are offering him fresh terms, yet Romano suggests their resolve could weaken if a sufficiently lucrative offer materialises over the coming weeks.

Both United and Arsenal are understood to be monitoring Scott's situation closely, with the possibility of a summer exit dependent on whether Bournemouth ultimately decide to cash in on their midfielder.