Tchouameni talks Real Madrid, Man City amid transfer rumours
Monaco midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni has spoken of interest from Real Madrid and Manchester City as the summer transfer rumours begin to wind up before the summer.
The 22-year-old France international is among the most coveted midfield talents in the world, as his high-energy, combative performances in Ligue 1 and on the international stage have garnered much attention.
On Sunday, Tchouameni scored the winner for Didier Deschamps’ France as they defeated Ivory Coast 2-1, and was the star performer in the absence of N’Golo Kante. On just his eighth cap, he proved why he’s considered the future of Les Bleus' midfield.
Though he insists he’s happy in Monaco, the club are likely to miss out on Champions League football next season and the midfielder might find his head quickly turned by the reported courting of Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain and Manchester City.
He added fuel to that fire on Monday by commenting on the rumours.
What did Tchouameni say?
Ahead of France’s friendly with South Africa on Tuesday, the star spoke to the press - and addressed the speculation.
"You don't necessarily have to play at Real or Manchester City to play for the France team,” he said.
When asked about PSG specifically, the midfielder said: "It is a top club with very great players. They have big goals but unfortunately they haven't won the Champions League yet - but they already have a lot of trophies.”
If it’s a Champions League challenge he’s after, he’ll be glad to hear Real Madrid are thought to be in pole position to land his signature as they seek to raid Ligue 1 for him and Kylian Mbappe.
As well as PSG and Man City, Chelsea were also thought to be challenging for Tchouameni’s signature, although the recent turmoil at the club might prevent them from claiming another Monaco midfield import after signing Tiemoue Bakayoko in 2017.