Chelsea are one of the three most likely summer destinations for highly-rated AS Monaco midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni, according to French outlet RMC Sport.
As things stand, Monaco, who sit fourth in Ligue 1, are still fighting for a Champions League spot.
While Tchouameni recently insisted that he is not against playing in the Champions League with Monaco, RMC Sport claims that the 22-year-old will not be part of Philippe Clement’s squad next season.
The former Ligue 1 young player of the season has attracted interest from many top European sides, but three clubs, in particular, are reportedly leading the race to sign him; Chelsea, Liverpool, and Real Madrid.
These three clubs have reportedly had months of negotiations with the players’ representatives.
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The report adds that Paris Saint-Germain are also vying for Tchouameni’s signature, but rather than staying in France, the player would prefer playing abroad.
Chelsea may have been at a disadvantage due to the situation around the club’s ownership, but they have maintained a good relationship with the midfielder’s representatives at Excellence Sport Nation, who also represent Sevilla’s Jules Kounde.
Saul Niguez and Ross Barkley’s expected Stamford Bridge exits would leave space for midfield signings, while the likes of Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Jorginho have reportedly generated transfer interest from Serie A clubs as well.
The likes of Conor Gallagher and Billy Gilmour will return from their loan Premier League loan spells this summer, but it is easy to see why Chelsea would not want to miss out on the possibility of signing Tchouameni.
Tchouameni mostly plays in a double pivot in a 4-2-3-1 formation at Monaco, but he is widely regarded as an all-round midfielder who can also play as a number eight.
His contract at Monaco runs until 2024 with an option of a one-year extension.
Earlier reports suggest the municipality club would want at least €60million (roughly £50m) for the France international.
