Real Madrid have reportedly stepped up their chase of Monaco midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni after failing to sign Kylian Mbappe.
Mbappe was widely expected to join Los Blancos on a free transfer this summer, but the France international confirmed on Saturday that he has signed a new contract in Paris that would keep him at the club until 2025.
Real Madrid was reportedly certain that they would recruit the World Cup winner ahead of the 2022-23 season, preferring him to Erling Braut Haaland, who has recently agreed to join Manchester City from Borussia Dortmund.
Carlo Ancelotti’s team will now have to explore elsewhere to stengthen their attack next season, but according to Marca, a new central midfielder is also a priority for the club, . According to the source, Los Blancos are intending to speed up their pursuit of Tchouameni, fearing that they would miss out on him this summer.
Aurelien Tchouameni
In 50 appearances across all competitions, the 22-year-old scored five goals and added three assists for Monaco in the 2021-22 season.
In 35 appearances in Ligue 1, he scored three goals and added two assists to help Monaco finish third and qualify for the Champions League third qualifying round next season.
Liverpool, Chelsea, and Manchester United have all been linked with a move for the midfielder, who has just over two years left on his present contract.
Despite the widespread curiosity about his future, Tchouameni recently stated that he is not in a hurry to leave Monaco.
“I’m under contract until 2024, with a 2025 option.” “We’ll see what the future holds,” the midfielder told reporters recently. “In the transfer window, a lot of things can happen.” There’s my case, as well as the cases of the other players, some of whom are nearing the end of their contracts and seeking new opportunities.
“Why not stay in the Champions League?” This season’s preliminary round elimination by Shakhtar Donetsk stuck in my throat. Playing in the Champions League with Monaco does not displease me.”
Monaco wants between €55 million (£46.7 million) and €60 million (£50.9 million) for Tchouameni this summer, according to journalist Ekrem Konur.
Related: How PSG Convinced Mbappe To Accept New Contract And Reject Move To Real Madrid
The midfielder has made 95 appearances for Stade Louis II since joining from Bordeaux in January 2020, scoring eight goals and providing seven assists.
Luka Modic is due to sign a new one-year contract with Real Madrid, while Toni Kroos, Casemiro, Federico Valverde, and Eduardo Camavinga are all expected to return to the club next season.
However, there will be midfield exits this summer, with Isco set to leave on a free transfer and Dani Ceballos’ future uncertain.
Real Madrid finished their La Liga season with a goalless draw against Real Betis on Friday night, and they are now preparing for the Champions League final against Liverpool next weekend.
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