Tchouameni suffers groin injury as Chelsea emerge as rival and United's midfield search grows more complicated

Manchester United's pursuit of Aurelien Tchouameni has been complicated by a groin injury and the emergence of Chelsea as a rival for the Real Madrid midfielder.

ESPN reports that Tchouameni has suffered a muscle tear in training that rules him out of France's World Cup last-16 match against Paraguay, and would also keep him out of any quarter-final. Manu Kone will replace him alongside Adrien Rabiot.

According to Spanish outlet SPORT, new Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso wants the Blues to rival United for Tchouameni. Alonso coached him at Real Madrid last season, which could give Chelsea an advantage, though they would reportedly only pursue a deal if Enzo Fernandez leaves.

What about United's other midfield targets?

Bournemouth's Alex Scott remains high on the shortlist alongside Tchouameni. Sky Sports has reported that Bournemouth do not want to sell and want Scott to sign a new deal.

Brighton want £77 million for Carlos Baleba, according to Turkish outlet Sporx, after Galatasaray contacted the club and were quoted that price. United continue to be credited with interest.

Lille president Olivier Letang spoke bullishly about Ayyoub Bouaddi, telling Eurosport: "Many clubs are interested in him, but very few can afford him today. He is already one of the best midfielders in the world and still has a lot of room for improvement. He is only 18 years old and has the whole future ahead of him."

Borussia Dortmund's Felix Nmecha and Fulham's Sander Berge also remain on the shortlist.

What is happening with Ederson?

Fabrizio Romano explained: "They have a verbal agreement with Atalanta, so the two clubs have an agreement since one month ago, but they're waiting for Ederson to have the second part of his medical with Manchester United in England before approving everything."

Did Bruno Fernandes try to recruit Mateus Fernandes?

The Athletic reports that Bruno Fernandes attempted to persuade Mateus Fernandes to choose United over Tottenham, but the effort was in vain. The former West Ham midfielder acknowledged after completing his £85 million move that United's captain is his biggest idol.

What else is happening?

Rio Ferdinand made a direct appeal to Tchouameni on his YouTube channel, saying: "If you're looking to leave Real Madrid, we are the club. Man United are the club. If you want to make it happen, make the call."

Andre Onana's return to Trabzonspor on a season-long loan was confirmed on Friday. United also made a last-minute approach for Stuttgart midfielder Angelo Stiller last summer, according to Kicker, but ran out of time before the deadline. Chelsea, Juventus and Real Madrid are also interested.