Real Madrid: 3 budget-friendly transfer targets for 2020

DM Aurelien Tchouameni

Real Madrid already have one of the world’s best young box-to-box midfielders in Fede Valverde, but that hasn’t stopped them from showing a great deal of interest in other young center midfielders on the market. Donny van de Beek and Los Blancos once had a pre-arranged transfer agreement for the summer 2020 transfer window before COVID-19 rendered it null, while Eduardo Camavinga is the new top target as a teenager who is already a massive star at defensive midfielder.

But there are other Ligue 1 center midfielders to watch closely if Camavinga can’t make the switch this summer due to a commitment with Rennes.

Boubakary Soumare is likely high on Real’s list, and Houssem Aouar of Lyon is a wonderful attacking player. But don’t sleep on former Bordeaux man Aurelien Tchouameni, whom Monaco purchased in the winter.

Since Tchouanemi recently moved teams, Real could make a deal to sign him after 2020-2021 for a smoother transition. Tchouanemi would be significantly cheaper than either Camavinga or Soumare and would be more likely to take a loan deal or reduced role. He is a true defensive midfielder and could be an ideal backup for superstar Casemiro.

Last season, the 20-year-old averaged two tackles per game for Bordeaux in Ligue 1, according to WhoScored.com.