Sport

Real Madrid Transfer Buzz: Liverpool and Man City Set Sights on Tchouameni – Will He Make the Move?

2025-01-13

Author: Ming

Liverpool's Optimism and Competition

Liverpool is reportedly optimistic about their chances of signing Aurelien Tchouameni, but they are quickly facing stiff competition from Manchester City. As the January transfer window approaches, Real Madrid’s position on the potential deal for Tchouameni has also come to light.

Premier League's Transfer Landscape

The Premier League is shaping up to be an exciting battleground this season, with Liverpool in a strong position to challenge for both the Premier League title and the Champions League. To bolster their squad, Liverpool is actively in search of a new midfielder, despite the impressive contributions of Alexis Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch this season. As early as November, it was reported that Liverpool reignited their interest in Tchouameni, with hopes of securing his services by summer 2025.

Tchouameni's Background

Tchouameni, who currently plays for Real Madrid, had previously attracted Liverpool's attention before his €80 million (£67 million, $81.6 million) move from AS Monaco to the Santiago Bernabeu in summer 2022. At that time, Paris Saint-Germain also expressed interest, but Tchouameni opted for the prestige of Madrid, leaving both clubs disappointed.

Manchester City's Interest

However, Manchester City is now in the mix for Tchouameni, particularly following Rodri's injury. Pep Guardiola's team recognizes the urgency of acquiring a central midfielder and has earmarked Tchouameni as a prime target. Given that both Liverpool and City could offer him regular starting opportunities, Tchouameni finds himself in a desirable position. Nevertheless, a January switch appears unlikely.

Real Madrid's Stance

As for Real Madrid, they are firmly committed to retaining Tchouameni. The Spanish giants are currently grappling with significant injury woes, especially in defense, leading to Tchouameni being employed as a makeshift center-back. Out of his 23 appearances this season, 15 have been in that unaccustomed role, showcasing his versatility and importance to the squad. With injuries to key defenders like Eder Militao and David Alaba still affecting the team, Real Madrid is not inclined to weaken their lineup by selling Tchouameni at this time.

Insight from James Pearce

Additionally, James Pearce, an insider for The Athletic, recently dismissed rumors surrounding a potential transfer to Liverpool. He emphasized, "No concrete developments are in the works. There’s always been speculation about Tchouameni, but right now, there’s nothing solid."

Real Madrid's Other Targets

Meanwhile, Real Madrid is also targeting other players as they eye strengthening positions across the squad. The club is on the lookout for a left-back and has been strongly linked with Alphonso Davies, though he seems poised to extend his contract at Bayern Munich. Competing with Manchester United and Manchester City, Madrid is also interested in PSG's Nuno Mendes. In the youth brackets, the club has also set its sights on Archie Gray from Tottenham Hotspur and Bournemouth’s Dean Huijsen, both impressing in their respective campaigns. Madrid is reportedly preparing a bid of €50 million (£42 million, $51 million) for Gray, although Tottenham is unwilling to part with him after acquiring him just last summer for £40 million.

Conclusion

With a title race heating up and the January transfer window looming, all eyes will be on how these transfer sagas unfold. Could Liverpool or Man City manage to lure Tchouameni away from Madrid? Stay tuned as this story develops!