Liverpool supporters have been urged to monitor one of Europe’s top midfield talents — but not for the reasons they might have anticipated earlier this summer.
As the Reds focus their transfer attention on strengthening at left-back and in attack, the unexpected emergence of Aurelien Tchouameni as a possible target has raised eyebrows — and could prove to be a major development.
According to FourFourTwo, Liverpool have received encouragement to pursue the Real Madrid star, who may now be available for around £59 million — significantly less than the £68.3 million fee Madrid paid Monaco for him in 2022, per Marca.
Spanish source Fichajes suggests that Los Blancos are open to letting the 25-year-old leave, despite his status as one of the top young defensive midfielders in the game.
The change in Madrid’s stance reportedly stems from new manager Xabi Alonso’s abundance of quality midfielders, including Eduardo Camavinga, Jude Bellingham, and potentially even Trent Alexander-Arnold operating centrally next season.
Tchouameni, who also covered at centre-back under Carlo Ancelotti, is now considered expendable in an already stacked squad — potentially reopening Liverpool’s long-term interest in the player.
Tchouameni Not a Priority for Slot — Yet
Despite the potential value and talent on offer, incoming Liverpool head coach Arne Slot is not currently prioritising a defensive midfield signing. The club’s focus lies elsewhere, particularly on the left side of defence and in attack.
There’s already movement on those fronts — Milos Kerkez has pulled out of international duty amid strong Anfield links, and continued speculation surrounds the futures of forwards Darwin Nunez and Luis Diaz, who are attracting attention from Saudi clubs.
Additionally, Ryan Gravenberch’s solid performances in a deeper midfield role last season, along with the presence of Wataru Endo and Stefan Bajcetic, have lessened the urgency to bring in another holding midfielder like Tchouameni.
Still, should the Frenchman truly be on the market for under £60 million, it’s hard to believe Liverpool won’t consider a move — particularly if his standing at Madrid diminishes after the Club World Cup.
Tchouameni’s age, versatility, and top-tier experience would make him an asset, even if not an immediate necessity.
The club’s summer plans seem to revolve around Bayer Leverkusen’s Florian Wirtz, and if that deal goes through, there might be little room left in the budget for another major midfield addition.
Tchouameni is expected to feature for Real Madrid during their Club World Cup trip to the U.S., so any developments may come later in the window — if at all
