Real Madrid appear to have discovered a gem by signing Aurelien Tchouameni in the summer from AS Monaco. It might have been a big money move but the Frenchman appears to be worth each and every penny, as he come in and established himself as a first-team starter immediately, not letting the club feel the absence of Casemiro, who left for Manchester United.
Nobody could have expected Tchouameni to adjust to life at Real Madrid so seamlessly. He is just 22 years of age and this is his first season outside of France, and at the biggest club in the world for the matter.
Thus, one can only wonder how good Tchouameni can get over time. He did have other options in the summer, but chose to join Real Madrid, which is a very positive sign.
In fact, it looks like it was Liverpool who had made the first move for the then AS Monaco midfielder, before Real Madrid joined the race. Paris Saint-Germain appear to have tried to make a late move as well but by then, Tchouameni’s mind had been made up.
Why Tchouameni rejected Liverpool for Real Madrid
As reported by Liverpool Echo, Tchouameni told La Parisien:
"“The first to come forward was Liverpool. We had discussions.”"
The French international further went on to add though:
"“Then Real arrived. And in my head everything was clear. It was Real and not another. It’s the biggest club in the world.“If you claim to accomplish great things, to mark the history of your sport, there is no better. So I didn’t hesitate for a second.“I told my agent: as long as there is interest, we do everything to go there. I was already conditioned.“When Paris showed up, my choice was already made, even if I was happy to be approached by PSG.”"
It does look like Tchouameni made the right choice for not just his future but his present as well as he has been a regular starter ever since joining Real Madrid. And it is hard to see him losing his place in the team any time soon, considering how good he has been.
Tchouameni has the potential to be one of the best midfielders in the world if he can continue to develop at this rate. And hopefully, we will see that happen at Real Madrid, who might have found their defensive midfielder for the next decade to come.