Chelsea have sent scouts to watch Monaco’s Aurelien Tchouameni “extensively” and may prefer him to West Ham star Declan Rice, reports the Evening Standard.
The European champions are known to admire the Hammers midfielder, and his past as a fan and academy player of the Blues has lead to speculation that they would be his preferred destination for a summer transfer, with both Manchester clubs also interested.
But with David Moyes making clear that if his captain does leave it will be extremely expensive, the Stamford Bridge side might have settled on a more affordable option.
The report in the Evening Standard says: “Chelsea have long-standing interest in Rice, who will be one of the most sought-after players in the Premier League at the end of the season.
“Monaco’s Aurelien Tchouameni has also been extensively watched by Chelsea scouts this season and could yet be the preferred option to Rice – particularly if West Ham price their player out of a move.”
Strategy working?
The game of cat and mouse between the Irons and the Premier League suitors for Rice continues ahead of what is sure to be a pivotal summer at the London Stadium.
All indications are that the club is heading for a split with the fan-favourite as he appears to want to make a move into the Champions League.
His comments to Gary Neville on The Overlap suggest as much although he is sensible enough to not directly declare and intention to leave.
Usually when the financial might of Manchester United, and particularly Chelsea and Manchester City comes into play they get what they want.
But the manager and the club appear to be taking inspiration from last summer’s stand-off between City and Tottenham over Harry Kane.
Spurs held firm on demanding well over £100million for the England captain and Pep Guardiola’s side eventually conceded defeat.
Moyes has indicated a similar price is going to be necessary to prize Rice out of East London (Metro), so it is still possible he remains into next season.