A recent report from ESPN states that Manchester United have shown keen interest in Monaco’s midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni who has taken Ligue 1 by a storm. The 22 year old has also played alongside Paul Pogba earlier in the campaign to win the Nations Cup for France.
The Red Devils are busy shortlisting their summer transfer targets before the arrival of Erik Ten Hag, who has verbally agreed on a deal to become their new permanent manager. United are looking to make changes in all three areas including the defence, midfield and attack.
Aurelien Tchouameni’s Impressive Run With Monaco
The defensive midfielder has averaged 2.5 tackles and 2.8 interceptions over 30 appearances in the Ligue 1 this season. Playing on his strengths, Tchouameni is an adept playmaker averaging 3.1 long balls from 56.4 passes per game, with an accuracy of 87.3 %, over 48 appearances on all fronts this campaign. The 185 cm tall midfielder has won 1.9 out of 2.7 aerial duels in offence which shows his capability in winning aerial battles in corner situations. Having scored 4 goals and created 1 assist over the span of 48 games, he can defend and attack in a prolific manner (stats via Whoscored).
Tchouameni’s Arrival At Manchester United Favoured By Ten Hag
The 22-year-old midfielder, who is enjoying a fine season in Ligue 1, initially impressed under former Monaco manager Niko Kovac. He has raised his game further under Philippe Clement, following the new gaffer’s arrival in January.
It has already been confirmed that Nemanja Matic is leaving Manchester United at the end of this season. The likes of Paul Pogba and Juan Mata look set to follow Matic as the duo haven’t renewed their contracts yet. The Red Devils now have plenty of space in their squad to bring in young talented prospects to Old Trafford.
Tchouameni is a versatile midfielder who can play in a holding position and could also be utilised in a more box-to-box approach. This versatility should appeal to Erik Ten Hag.
Should Tchouameni move to Old Trafford, he will most likely contend for a first-team position with the Leeds United midfielder Kalvin Phillips, who is a key target for Manchester United this summer.
Tchouameni A Decent Fit For Manchester United?
Given the present circumstances, signing a quality centre-midfielder should be the board’s priority once the summer transfer window opens. It’s beyond any doubt that the Red Devils need to upgrade their defensive options to try and solve their issues at the centre of the pitch – and Aurelien Tchouameni fits the bill perfectly.
At 22, Tchouameni will only get better with each season, so it won’t be a complete surprise if United pay a hefty transfer fee for him.
