Transfer News: Chelsea to battle Real Madrid for impressive 20-year-old Ligue 1 starlet

Chelsea target AS Monaco midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni

According to ESPN, Chelsea are set to rival Real Madrid for AS Monaco midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni.

The 20-year-old spent the better part of his formative years at Bordeaux. It was here that he transcended from the youth level to the first-team. Aurelian eventually moved to Monaco in 2020.

He has since established himself as a regular in Les Monegasques lineup. So far, he has made 19 appearances this season, making two assists. (h/t Transfermarkt)

Aurelien Tchouameni made his first team bow at Bordeaux in 2018

Aurelien’s performances have seen a number of Europe’s top clubs sit up and take notice. One of them is Real Madrid.

Rather than a priority, Los Blancos view the 20-year-old as an alternative to Rennes wonderkid Edouardo Camavinga. Given the youngster’s potential, the comparison can be considered a compliment. (h/t The Metro)

Chelsea are keen to strengthen their midfield in the summer, irrespective of whether Frank Lampard remains the manager or not. This has seen them keep a close eye on Aurelian’s development at the Stade Louis II.

Aurelian has a high cieling
Aurelian has a high cieling

A central and defensive midfielder, Aurelian could set the stage as Chelsea’s next top midfield prospect. N’Golo Kante is not getting any younger, while Jorginho’s lack of pace is a real issue.

Bringing in a young mobile player such as Aurelian makes sense going forward. With Billy Gilmour already at the club, the Blues could form an impressive young midfield duo that can develop together.

Billy Gilmour edging closer to returning to first-team football for Chelsea as his road to recovery is complete. (GETTY Images)
Billy Gilmour has been excellent for Chelsea GETTY Images)

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The last defensive midfielder we signed from Monaco was Tiemoue Bakayoko. The Frenchman failed to reach the same levels at Chelsea and never quite settled in.

Currently on loan at Napoli, his time at Chelsea appears to be coming to a close. If it were to happen, we hope Aurelian fares better.