Aurelien Tchouameni is not expected to leave Real Madrid this summer, but a potential transfer has not been ruled out completely if the club receive an offer too significant to ignore.
According to journalist Ben Fernandes, as relayed in Defensa Central , Real Madrid have no active intention of selling the French midfielder, who recently extended his contract until 2031.
Tchouameni's absence from the start of the league season has nevertheless generated speculation about his future, with some reports linking him with Manchester United .
However, the midfielder has not yet been considered fully match fit , and his absence is not related to a possible transfer.
Fernandes believes a departure would be particularly surprising given Tchouameni's strengthened relationship with the club and the confidence shown in him through his new contract.
"Tchouameni has extended his contract until 2031; Mourinho wants him, and it would be strange to let him go, but if a good offer comes in, anything could happen,"Fernandes said.
That appears to be the key to understanding the situation.
Real Madrid are not entirely opposed to selling Tchouameni. (Photo by Pedro Salado/Getty Images)
Real Madrid have communicated their confidence in Tchouameni by extending his deal, while Jose Mourinho is understood to value the Frenchman's role within the squad.
Under those circumstances, there is little indication that the club are actively looking for a buyer.
The possibility of a major offer, however, means the situation cannot be considered completely closed.
As is often the case during the final days of the transfer window, circumstances can change if a major club decides to act.
Manchester United have been among the clubs linked with Tchouameni in recent weeks, although there is no suggestion that an agreement or formal negotiations are currently in place.
Fernandes believes the Premier League club could become a factor if circumstances push them towards another major signing before the window closes.
"Anything can happen. If Manchester United lose again in the Premier League, I wouldn't rule out them making a big offer."
Tchouameni is an integral part of Mourinho's setup. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
United's situation could therefore be worth monitoring, particularly if results increase the pressure on the club.
However, a bid would have to be substantial to force Real Madrid into reconsidering their position, given Tchouameni's long-term contract and his importance to Mourinho's plans.
One of the most interesting aspects of Fernandes' information concerns the player's own attitude.
"Tchouameni isn't going to make things difficult. If they tell him they don't count on him, he'd leave.
"However, the message they've conveyed to him is the opposite, given that they've renewed his contract. Therefore, his departure would be very unlikely."
Fernandes also referred to a previous situation involving Tchouameni and Federico Valverde, noting that there were figures within the club who had previously wanted the Uruguayan midfielder to leave.
That is no longer the case, with Mourinho now placing full confidence in Valverde.
