Manchester United are positioning themselves to capitalize on the growing unrest at Real Madrid, with reports suggesting the Premier League giants plan a summer move for Uruguayan midfielder Federico Valverde.
The 27-year-old has become a marginalized figure at the Santiago Bernabéu after a training ground altercation with teammate Aurélien Tchouaméni. The incident, which saw Valverde sustain a head injury and concussion symptoms, effectively ended his season. Despite issuing a public apology, club officials are reportedly considering offloading the vice-captain during the summer transfer window.
The situation has been further complicated by a faction within the Real Madrid dressing room that has sided with Tchouaméni, demanding Valverde’s departure. United, who are desperate to reinforce their midfield, had initially identified Tchouaméni as a target. However, the World Cup winner has received strong support from teammates and management and appears unlikely to leave Madrid, ruling out a move to Old Trafford.
United’s midfield rebuild is a top priority, with Casemiro set to leave at the end of the season and Manuel Ugarte expected to be sold for a significant fee. Valverde has now been added to their list of targets, which already includes the likes of Elliot Anderson, Yves Bissouma, Adam Wharton, and Tchouaméni. It remains unclear whether Valverde would be willing to make the move to the Premier League, and his contract with Real Madrid runs until 2029, meaning any deal would command a substantial transfer fee.
Valverde, who has earned 73 caps for Uruguay, is expected to be named in his country’s squad for the upcoming World Cup in North America.