Aurelien Tchouameni has recently emerged as a top option to replace Casemiro this summer, and he has added fuel to the fire after discussing his strong friendship with 'idol' Paul Pogba.
Throughout the history of Manchester United football club, they have had a solid relationship with Real Madrid.
In recent years, we have seen United buy Raphael Varane and Casemiro from Los Blancos, and this summer, it looks like Tchouameni might be next in line.
The Frenchman has had a very consistent and impressive career so far at Real Madrid, not just becoming a mainstay at one of the best national teams in the world, but one of the best club teams also.
It is almost unanimously agreed that replacing Casemiro is no easy task; however, Tchouameni could be a great fit. A hugely talented player with experience and only 26 years of age would transform United's midfield next season.
Despite many names, as usual for United, being thrown around to become Casemiro's successor, Tchouameni has stolen the headlines and also created them after comments about Paul Pogba a few years back.
At the same time, the French international has been involved in a very public clash with current teammate Fede Valverde, with the pair reportedly clashing in training and throwing the former's future at Real Madrid into doubt.
Tchouameni on Pogba's impact on his career
As relayed by United In Focus, Onefootball reported in 2021 on Tchouameni's admiration for the World Cup winner Paul Pogba.
"He had the role of a big brother. He pushed me to let go, to play with confidence, and to show my qualities. After that, there you have it, I will have to play well to be part of the continuity in this group."
The links with Manchester United go even deeper with Tchouameni, as in an interview earlier this month, the 26-year-old spoke about his love for many United legends, such as, David Beckham, Paul Scholes, Michael Carrick, and Roy Keane.
The midfielder also called Old Trafford "special" when discussing the prospect of playing there. Furthermore, he has stressed his intention to see out his Real Madrid contract until 2028, whilst also admitting "you never know what the future holds."
Should Tchouameni be option number one?
United have been linked with a whole host of options for this summer, making their final decision even trickier.
When looking at Tchouameni, one of his most redeeming qualities is his availability, having played almost 200 matches in just four seasons at Real Madrid.
Another is his experience, winning eight major trophies with Real Madrid, including a Champions League, and shining at the World Cup for France, where he scored a screamer in the match that knocked England out of the tournament.
Furthermore, he also has the height, which many of Man United's other targets lack. He is actually taller than Casemiro, and despite his scoring record not rivalling that of Casemiro's, there is no doubt that he can improve that by playing with Bruno Fernandes.
The key issue that may fear many United fans however, is the lack of Premier League experience, and the unpredictability of players' adaptability to the league.
The club went for league-proven players last summer, which was a success, therefore many fans will wish for the same again this time round.
However, with a potential fee of around £70 million, and more experience than the likes of Elliot Anderson and Adam Wharton combined, he may just be the man the Red Devils need.