Liverpool have failed to secure the signing of Real Madrid's Aurelien Tchouameni previously, and Chelsea could now compound their disappointment by bringing him to Stamford Bridge, as per reports in Spain.
Tchouameni emerged from the Bordeaux academy and made 37 appearances for their first team before departing for a Ligue 1 competitor. In January 2020, Monaco paid €18 million to acquire the defensive midfielder.
Tchouameni had an exceptionally impressive 2021-22 season with Monaco, attracting the attention of both Liverpool and Real Madrid as prime targets.
Jurgen Klopp saw the Frenchman as the perfect successor to Fabinho and was keen to bring him to Anfield. The manager even phoned Tchouameni on several occasions, but Liverpool ultimately lost out in the transfer race.
Tchouameni eventually joined Madrid in a deal worth an initial €80 million, with potential add-ons increasing the transfer to a substantial €100 million.
According to Fichajes.net, Tchouameni could potentially ply his trade in the Premier League next season, but not with Liverpool.
Chelsea are planning a bold move and are so eager to add him to their squad that they are even willing to offer captain Reece James in a significant player-plus-cash deal.
The Blues are aware that Madrid have previously expressed interest in signing James as a potential successor to current right-back Dani Carvajal. Consequently, they believe they can use James as leverage to persuade Madrid to part ways with Tchouameni.
The fact that Chelsea are considering signing a defensive midfielder raises concerns for Moises Caicedo.
The Ecuadorian made the switch from Brighton to Chelsea last summer for an initial £100 million, potentially rising to a British record £115 million.
However, he has struggled in a Chelsea shirt thus far and was at fault for one of Alejandro Garnacho’s goals during the thrilling 4-3 win over Manchester United on Thursday.
The report adds that Madrid view Tchouameni as a crucial component of their long-term plans, making it difficult for Chelsea to replace Caicedo with the La Liga star.
Nevertheless, it is evident that Caicedo needs to enhance his performances; otherwise, Blues chief Todd Boehly may be persuaded to invest more money to strengthen his midfield.