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Chelsea, Manchester United and Newcastle vying for €80m Real Madrid ace after shock Xabi Alonso decision

Originally posted on We All Follow United
By Rohit Sarkar | Last updated Sep 19, 2025 8:47 PM ET

Manchester United on alert as Eduardo Camavinga faces an uncertain future at Real Madrid

Manchester United had focused on signing a defensive midfielder in the summer transfer window, and at this moment, their midfield lacks composure, technical ability to dictate the tempo of matches, break lines with passes, and also keep possession of the ball comfortably.

The Red Devils need a defensive midfielder, which is so important in Ruben Amorim’s 3-4-2-1 system currently. Casemiro has lost pace with age, while Manuel Ugarte has not settled in the role. Moreover, the manager has not backed Kobbie Mainoo as a defensive midfielder. The lack of a quality defensive midfielder has allowed opponents to exploit the space left behind by a two-man midfield system. Teams have gained numerical superiority over United in the midfield.

So, the club needs a defensive midfielder who is press-resistant and also intelligent on the ball. The Red Devils have targeted young stars like Carlos Baleba and Adam Wharton for the role, but haven’t been successful in cracking any of the deals due to the high price tag. Hence, Amorim’s side will continue their search in the January transfer window and also next summer, because Casemiro is looking to depart the club when his contract expires next summer.

A world class player

Journalist Marc Brus has reported that Premier League clubs like Chelsea, Manchester United, and Newcastle United are keeping tabs on the situation of Eduardo Camavinga at Real Madrid. The source reveals that the Los Blancos value him at €80m, as the French midfielder is facing an uncertain future under new manager Xabi Alonso.

Brus, however, claims that the 22-year-old is not certain to leave Madrid, but the Premier League clubs value his versatility and quality. Camavinga has played efficiently as a defensive midfielder and also as a left-back for Real Madrid and the French National Team. However, once Real Madrid give the nod, the Premier League clubs have to make a quick move.

Manchester United won’t consider him ahead of Carlos Baleba:

Manchester United prefer Carlos Baleba over any other target. They have been insistent on signing the Cameroon international, and will surely go hard for him in January after making a significant annual profit. However, if they don’t manage to sign the 21-year-old Brighton star, despite their insistence, then United can surely look for the Frenchman as a handy option, as he can play in various positions on the field, which is surely an attractive proposition.

However, if the Frenchman decides to leave Real Madrid, he might prefer Chelsea over the other two clubs. The London club has more defined plans for him compared to United’s potential interest if the Baleba deal falls through. While Newcastle’s recent rise and Champions League participation might tempt him, the allure of Chelsea’s project and potential for higher wages could make Stamford Bridge the preferred destination. United’s current inconsistencies and poor performances might also influence Camavinga’s decision.

This article first appeared on We All Follow United and was syndicated with permission.

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