Manchester United’s midfield search
Manchester United are reportedly exploring options for a new midfielder following their unsuccessful pursuit of Mateus Fernandes. The club had engaged in extensive discussions to sign Fernandes, who had reportedly prioritised a move to Old Trafford this summer. However, Tottenham Hotspur appear to have secured the midfielder after agreeing to meet West Ham United‘s reported £85 million asking price for the player. United were reportedly unwilling to match West Ham’s valuation for Fernandes, who was signed from Southampton a year ago for a fee plus add-ons.
With Fernandes seemingly headed to Tottenham, United are now looking at alternative targets. Among the players being considered is Real Madrid midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni. Reports suggest that Real Madrid could be open to selling the 26-year-old, who they signed for £85 million four years ago from Monaco. Tchouameni is currently with France‘s squad for the World Cup this summer.
Tchouameni vs. Scott: A statistical comparison
United’s data department, led by Michael Sansoni, plays a significant role in the club’s transfer strategy. While Fernandes and Elliot Anderson were identified as strong Premier League options to replace Casemiro, neither will be joining United. Anderson has reportedly agreed to join Manchester City for £116 million.
The club is now weighing options between a proven Premier League performer and a high-profile signing from a top European club. One potential target is Bournemouth‘s Alex Scott, who recently had his most productive goalscoring season in the top flight, scoring three goals as the Cherries qualified for the Europa League for the first time.
When comparing Tchouameni and Scott, statistics from Who Scored indicate that Scott played approximately 239 more minutes last season, with three more starts than Tchouameni. However, Tchouameni has shown more promise as a defensive midfielder when on the pitch. He averages 2.1 tackles per 90 minutes compared to Scott’s 1.6. Tchouameni also concedes fewer fouls, with 0.9 compared to Scott’s 1.2, and has better interceptions per 90 minutes, at 1.4 versus Scott’s 1.
Scott leads in clearances with 2.2 compared to Tchouameni’s 1.7, though this difference could be attributed to the contrasting dominance of their respective teams, Real Madrid and Bournemouth. In offensive play, both players show similar numbers for shots per game (Scott’s 1.2 to Tchouameni’s 1.4) and key passes (0.7 to 0.8). However, Tchouameni’s passing statistics are notably higher, with 58 passes per game compared to Scott’s 37.6, and a pass completion rate of 91.5 per cent to Scott’s 84.9 per cent. Tchouameni also attempts more long balls, with 2 per game compared to Scott’s 1.4.
Coaches’ perspectives and transfer verdict
Coaches have offered insights into both players. Carlo Ancelotti, former Real Madrid manager, praised Tchouameni after a Champions League clash with Manchester City, highlighting his defensive qualities, strength in duels, and positioning. Ancelotti described him as a very important player with specific characteristics, noting that he is a physical presence focused on defence. Xabi Alonso called Tchouameni Real Madrid’s “foundational pillar,” and France’s national team manager, Didier Deschamps, has also commended him.
For Alex Scott, former Bournemouth head coach Andoni Iraola, now manager of Liverpool, consistently praised his performance, stating that Scott was in his best form during his three seasons at the club.
Manchester United’s interest in Tchouameni signals a clear intent. He is described as an aggressive player capable of winning challenges and duels, fitting the profile needed to replace Casemiro.
While Scott is viewed as a more realistic target, he is not seen as the defensive midfielder United currently require, being more akin to Kobbie Mainoo. Playing Mainoo and Scott together could potentially expose United’s defence. Tchouameni is considered the preferred option to fill the defensive midfield role, though Real Madrid’s willingness to sell remains uncertain.
Former United player Rio Ferdinand has also weighed in on the situation, predicting that United will pursue Tchouameni. Ferdinand suggested that United are reserving funds for their primary targets, stating that if Tchouameni becomes available, United cannot afford to miss the opportunity. He believes United and Arsenal have adopted a stance against overpaying for players they do not deem worth the price.
Ferdinand’s comments came after the news that Fernandes could be moving to Tottenham for a reported £80 million, a figure he described as “huge money.”
United’s pursuit of a midfielder continues as they navigate the transfer market, with Tchouameni emerging as a key target following the developments with Fernandes.
The club’s focus is on securing a player who can effectively fill the defensive midfield brief, a role that Tchouameni is believed to be well-suited for.
Source: manchestereveningnews.co.uk