Manchester United Chase Valverde as Real Madrid Plan Midfield Overhaul with Enzo Fernández

Manchester United are reportedly preparing a massive €100 million bid for Real Madrid’s dynamic midfielder Federico Valverde, as Erik ten Hag’s side look to add more strength and drive to their midfield ahead of the second half of the season. Meanwhile, over in Spain, Florentino Pérez is quietly mapping out a major midfield overhaul at Real Madrid — one that could reshape the club’s identity for the next decade.

The Uruguayan international, who has become one of Madrid’s most reliable performers under Carlo Ancelotti, could be the centrepiece of one of the biggest transfer sagas of 2026. Valverde’s work rate, energy, and versatility have long caught Ten Hag’s eye, and United see him as the perfect leader to command the centre of the park.

After making high-profile attacking signings like Benjamin Šeško, Matheus Cunha, and Bryan Mbeumo, Manchester United’s next major project is midfield reinforcement. Ten Hag has repeatedly emphasized that his team lacks a true “engine” — someone who can dominate transitions, press intelligently, and link defence with attack.

A United insider reportedly said the club are “ready to test Madrid’s resolve” with a nine-figure offer, knowing that Valverde is a key part of Los Blancos’ current success. However, the same source admitted that “it will take something truly special” to persuade Real Madrid to part ways with such a complete player.

The Red Devils had previously monitored Carlos Baleba of Brighton, but growing concerns over his valuation made the pursuit unrealistic. Now, with Valverde’s contract situation being evaluated by Madrid, United see an opening — though they know the Spanish club’s decision will depend heavily on their future midfield plans.

At the Santiago Bernabéu, Florentino Pérez’s long-term project is becoming clearer. With Luka Modrić and Toni Kroos nearing the twilight of their careers, Real Madrid are preparing to transition to a younger, more dynamic midfield core. That project is expected to revolve around Enzo Fernández, who remains a top target, and Adam Wharton, the rising English talent making waves in the Premier League.

In addition to Fernández and Wharton, Madrid are said to be scouting a “mystery English prodigy,” whose identity is being kept under wraps to avoid attracting competition from other elite clubs. The plan, sources say, is to secure the future of Madrid’s midfield with youthful brilliance before Modrić and Kroos officially depart.

Selling Valverde, however, would be a deeply controversial decision within the Madrid hierarchy. The 27-year-old has been viewed as a future captain and symbol of Madrid’s modern era — a player capable of inspiring both through leadership and performance. Yet Pérez knows that sometimes, difficult sacrifices must be made to refresh the squad.

Ten Hag believes Valverde could become the heartbeat of Manchester United, comparing his potential impact to that of Roy Keane during the club’s dominant years. With Casemiro already slowing down and Christian Eriksen aging, United are desperate for a midfield general who can take the reins.

While it remains uncertain whether Madrid will accept any offer, United’s approach signals their intent to reclaim their place among Europe’s elite. The coming months could define the future of both clubs — with one trying to rebuild glory, and the other preparing for a generational shift.

⚡️ BREAKING TRANSFER UPDATE: Could Valverde really swap Madrid’s white for Uni