Transfers
2031 contract locks Tchouameni as Mourinho’s midfield plan stalls
2031 marks the year until which Real Madrid plan to keep French midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni on a new contract, a move that defies Jose Mourinho’s request for a fresh signing. The Spanish giants are set to make the Frenchman one of the club’s highest earners despite recent interest from Manchester United.
According to Mundo Deportivo, the renewal will run to 2031 and elevate Tchouameni into the ranks of Real Madrid’s top‑paid players. The announcement was accompanied by a photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images, underscoring the club’s confidence in the Frenchman.
While not long ago the French midfielder was listed among those poised to depart, Manchester United’s interest has now faded. The French talent’s decision to stay signals a shift in the club’s transfer strategy.
Jose Mourinho’s attempt to bring in a new midfielder this summer faces a considerable obstacle, as the Spanish club lacks the economic flexibility to add another high‑wage player. The midfield void left by the exits of Toni Kroos and Luka Modric has only deepened the dilemma.
While the renewal of Tchouameni rules out his departure, Real Madrid could still sign a replacement if Eduardo Camavinga exits the Santiago Bernabeu. A report featuring a Denis Doyle/Getty Images photo highlighted Camavinga’s reluctance to leave, leaving the midfield overhaul uncertain.
Unless Camavinga departs, Real Madrid’s midfield reinforcement remains doubtful, leaving Mourinho’s summer plans in limbo. The club’s focus now appears to be on consolidating its existing talent rather than pursuing new signings.