Chelsea are reportedly considering signing Aurelien Tchouameni after the New Year but will only welcome him into the squad at the end of the season.
This is according to 90min, who claim the Blues are willing to let Monaco keep their starlet midfield until the campaign’s conclusion after he’s agreed to join Thomas Tuchel’s team.
How real is Chelsea’s pursuit?
Tchouameni has been on the Stamford Bridge radar for a while and apparently came close to leaving the Ligue 1 side over the summer.
However, Chelsea held off their desires to land the 22-year-old, just to let him flourish even further in France.
This could be costly on many different levels.
For one, his price has literally risen.
Monaco initially placed a £30m tag on Tchouameni’s head, a fee 90min claim has now expanded to around £50m.
Also, the longer the France international shines on the European stage, the more interested suitors will be jostling for his signature.
Yet, Chelsea apparently remain in pole position to recruit Tchouameni and could make a move in January.
Tchoaumeni made for the Premier League
This might involve paying the price upfront and then allowing Monaco to keep hold of their prized possession for a few more months.
Much like the deal the Blues struck up with Borussia Dortmund for Christian Pulisic back in 2019.
If the Londoners do land their prime target, he will be a welcomed addition to the Premier League.
He would be greeted warmly by Paul Pogba – if he’s still around – as the Manchester United man once called his fellow countryman ‘extraordinary’.
11 days are left before Chelsea can take the next step in their pursuit of Tchouameni.
Not exactly as catchy as the 12 Days of Christmas…
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