Manchester United

Manchester United

Premier League • England

Real Madrid spooked by Man Utd interest in top midfielder with proposed new contract to include astronomical £874m release clause

Federico Valverde and Eduardo Camavinga of Real Madrid

Federico Valverde and Eduardo Camavinga of Real Madrid

Real Madrid have reportedly opened talks with a Manchester United midfield target over a new deal that would include a whopping £874million release clause.

The hugely talented Eduardo Camavinga has been a key part of Carlo Ancelotti’s engine room since making the switch from Ligue 1 club Rennes in the summer of 2021, appearing 82 times so far for Real.

Appearing alongside Luka Modric and Toni Kroos, Camavinga has appeared in 26 LaLiga matches this season and has also played a major role in the holders’ march to the Champions League quarter-finals.

And, amid significant interest from Manchester United, the Daily Mail reports that Los Blancos have opened talks with Camavinga and his representatives over a fresh contract at the Bernabeu.

The report also claims that any new deal binding the Frenchman to the Spanish giants will include an £874m exit to deter any suitors for considering making a bid for his services.

That is a similar tactic Real used to keep Eder Militao, Rodrygo and Vinicius Junior in Madrid.

The news will come as a blow to United boss Erik ten Hag, who is known to be a big admirer of the player. Indeed, the Dutchman was considering making a move this summer for a player who could be the mainstay of the Red Devils midfield for the next decade.

Ten Hag wants new midfield recruits

Ten Hag is actively looking for at least one new midfielder, with Scott McTominay being tipped to join Premier League rivals Newcastle.

United already have Casemiro and Christian Eriksen in their engine room, although the latter is currently recovering from a serious ankle injury.

However, both players are 31 and are entering the latter stages of their careers. To that end, Ten Hag wants to bring in some younger talent to freshen up his engine room.

But, if the report from the Mail is to be believed, it looks like a swoop for Camavinga will be virtually impossible.

United are back in action on Sunday April 2 when they head to Newcastle in the Premier League.

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