Rio Ferdinand urges Manchester United to rival Liverpool for Real Madrid star Aurelien Tchouameni

The Frenchman only arrived at the Bernabeu last summer but there is speculation over his future in Spain, with the signing of Jude Bellingham, for a fee that could rise to £115million, raising the possibility that Real could sell one of their midfield stars.

It remains to be seen whether that is Tchouameni, who signed a six-year deal after arriving from Monaco a year ago and made 24 LaLiga starts in his first season as a Real player.

Reports in Spain have suggested that Liverpool are keen on bringing Tchouameni to Anfield this summer, with the Reds making a €55m bid for the 23-year-old. While it’s claimed Real could be open to selling the midfielder, they would want at least €80m.

Liverpool remain focused on strengthening in that area of the pitch, having already added Alexis Mac Allister to their ranks, but Ferdinand wants the Reds to face a battle for Tchouameni’s signature.

Speaking on his Vibe with Five podcast, he urged United to take advantage of the competition for places at Real by attempting to bring him to Old Trafford this summer.

“In midfield, you know who I would go and get? I would go try to get Tchouameni,” Ferdinand said.

“He’s the one who doesn’t play, he is the odd man out at the moment. I’d go and try and get him. Massive improvement.”

United continue to push to sign Mason Mount, though a fee has not yet been agreed with Chelsea. A latest offer of £45m plus £5m in add-ons has been rejected, with Mount fearing Chelsea could price him out of a move.