Real Madrid News
Real Madrid initiate talks to tie down midfield mainstay with long-term 2031 deal
Real Madrid are wasting no time when it comes to protecting one of their most important assets.
In that regard, according to a report from SPORT, the club has already opened negotiations with Aurelien Tchouameni over a new long-term deal, with the intention of extending his stay until 2031.
This development comes at a time when interest in the French midfielder is growing rapidly across Europe, particularly from the Premier League.
Clubs like Liverpool and Manchester United are believed to be closely monitoring his situation, identifying him as the ideal profile to reinforce their midfield with defensive strength and leadership.
Important player for Real Madrid
Despite experiencing mixed moments since arriving in Madrid, Tchouameni’s importance within the squad has never truly been in doubt.
Whether under Carlo Ancelotti in the past or within the club’s evolving structure under Alvaro Arbeloa, he continues to play a crucial role at the heart of the team.
Internally, he is seen as the player who brings balance, structure, and discipline to a side built around attacking brilliance.
Often tasked with doing the unseen work, Tchouameni operates as the team’s stabiliser, the one who protects the defence, dictates positioning, and steps up in difficult situations.
His influence might not always dominate headlines, but within the dressing room and tactical setup, it is invaluable.
In many ways, he is the glue that allows Real Madrid’s attacking stars to thrive without compromising defensive solidity.
There is interest
Naturally, such qualities have not gone unnoticed elsewhere, as Premier League giants are reportedly prepared to test Madrid’s resolve, with financial packages that significantly exceed his current salary.
However, Real Madrid are clear in their positions. The Frenchman is currently under contract until 2028, protected by a staggering €1 billion release clause, an amount designed to fend off even the wealthiest suitors.
More importantly, the club has no intention of entertaining offers, even those reportedly reaching €140 million.
Instead, the strategy is to reward and secure. By initiating talks over a three-year extension, Real Madrid are sending a message that Tchouameni is not for sale.
Real Madrid News
Mourinho considering starting 23-year-old Real Madrid ace against Villarreal – report
After impressing during the international break, Eduardo Camavinga has a major opportunity to establish himself in Real Madrid’s midfield rotation.
Indeed, according to Defensa Central, Jose Mourinho is considering starting the Frenchman against Villarreal, with injuries and doubts over several players limiting his options.
Real Madrid cannot afford to drop points against Villarreal if they want to remain in the title race. However, Mourinho has issues to deal with in the squad, which could lead him to turn to Camavinga for a crucial role.
Camavinga could replace Tchouameni in midfield
The 23-year-old star could line up as the defensive midfielder in the double pivot, with Bernardo Silva or Arda Guler alongside him, and will be tasked with providing balance in midfield.
Real Madrid face Villarreal with several problems in central defence. Ibrahima Konate is expected to be a late call, leading Mourinho to consider moving Aurelien Tchouameni into defence alongside Antonio Rudiger.
Meanwhile, Federico Valverde could also struggle to be ready after the ankle injury he sustained in the derby before the international break.
The Uruguayan has continued to work individually away from the group and might return to group training tomorrow. Even then, his readiness to start remains in question.
That would leave a place open in midfield, with Camavinga in line to fill in.
Camavinga impressed during the international break
Camavinga has started only one match this season, the defeat against Real Betis.
Despite his limited opportunities, Mourinho is keen to bring the Frenchman back into the fold after he impressed for France during the international break.
Zinedine Zidane called the Real Madrid star up for his first France squad, and the midfielder performed well during the break.
That has given Mourinho and Real Madrid reason to be optimistic about using him against Villarreal, with the hope that he can move closer to the level he showed after first arriving at the club.
Therefore, the Villarreal match could represent an important test for Camavinga and a chance for the Frenchman to show that he can provide the balance Real Madrid need in midfield.
