Manchester United have held talks with Eduardo Camavinga’s representatives to explore whether a move for the Real Madrid midfielder is viable, according to transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano – but the 23-year-old’s personal stance remains the decisive obstacle.
Romano’s reporting, relayed by The Peoples Person, confirms that United made contact with Camavinga’s camp to understand the player’s situation. That outreach follows a similar approach the club made to those around Manu Koné weeks earlier, pointing to an active and ongoing search for a genuine defensive midfielder shield.
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The One Condition That Unlocks This Deal
The problem for United is unambiguous: Camavinga does not want to leave. Romano reports that the player’s message has been consistent throughout May, June, and July – he wants to fight for his place at Real Madrid under José Mourinho, with no intention of forcing a departure this summer.
“However, as has consistently been the case with Camavinga, the only way a transfer can happen – whether to Manchester United or any other club – is if the player gives the green light. At the moment, the message from Camavinga has remained unchanged throughout May, June, and July. He wants to continue working under José Mourinho and fight for his place at Real Madrid. If he eventually becomes open to leaving, the Premier League would be a very realistic destination.” – Fabrizio Romano
In other words, United cannot buy Camavinga until Camavinga decides he wants out. Madrid remain open to the sale in principle, but Mourinho’s approval – explicit encouragement to leave – appears to be the trigger the player is waiting on before reassessing.
Why United are targeting Camavinga and what he would solve in midfield
The Broader Midfield Picture
United’s search for a defensive-minded midfielder has been a frustrating subplot to this window. INEOS were priced out of Elliot Anderson, then watched Tottenham hijack moves for both Sandro Tonali and Mateus Fernandes. The signings of Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans are genuine additions, but neither is an out-and-out physical presence in front of the back line. United have tried to sway Aurelien Tchouameni away from Real Madrid, with similarly little traction.
Camavinga is not the only name in the frame. United’s midfield shortlist has included Koné and other alternatives, and the dual enquiries suggest INEOS are casting wide precisely because the top targets remain out of reach for now.
Everything hinges on whether Real Madrid’s internal midfield planning – particularly any moves for Rodri or Enzo Fernández – prompts the club to have a fresh conversation with Camavinga about his future. If Mourinho tells him his time is up, United are already positioned. Until then, the Reds wait.