Real Madrid's Mourinho decides to keep Aurelien Tchouameni, snubbing Liverpool and Man United

Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho has confirmed that French midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni will remain at the Bernabéu for the next season. Mourinho, in his second spell at the club, said the 26‑year‑old will be given the opportunity to become a guaranteed starter, effectively ending the pursuit by Liverpool and Manchester United, who had identified him as a key target for midfield reinforcement.

Both Premier League giants had been linked with the France 2026 World Cup squad member as they look to rebuild their middle of the park, with Liverpool seeking a successor to their departing midfield core and Manchester United aiming to replace Casemiro. The decision comes amid broader transfer speculation, including denied links to Chelsea's Enzo Fernández and Manchester City’s Rodri. Former United defender Rio Ferdinand voiced his disappointment, noting his belief that Tchouameni would have been "the first midfielder on my list" for Old Trafford.