Chelsea will not prioritise signing Aurelien Tchouameni when the window reopens despite keeping tabs on the midfielder throughout the summer, according to transfer insider Dean Jones.
What's the latest news involving Tchouameni?
Although he was on Chelsea's radar during the summer transfer window and head coach Thomas Tuchel mulled over whether to make a late bid, Tchouameni remains on French outfit Monaco's books.
Reports suggest the Champions League holders opted against firming up their interest as they wanted to allow Tchouameni time to develop further at Monaco and could, instead, make a move next summer.
However, Tuchel is likely to face competition from Premier League rivals Manchester United as, speaking on the Transfer Window Podcast - via the Daily Express - respected reporter Duncan Castles confirmed Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side had made contact with Tchouameni's representatives prior to the transfer window's closure at the end of last month.
Speculation over a potential move to Old Trafford has intensified after Red Devils midfielder Paul Pogba, who played alongside Tchouameni in France's midfield during the recent international break, publicly claimed he 'always' wants to play alongside the 21-year-old.
What has Dean Jones said about Tchouameni?
Tchouameni was not the only defensive-minded central midfielder Chelsea were linked with during the summer transfer window as West Ham United ace Declan Rice was also thought to be on Tuchel's wishlist.
Transfer insider Jones believes the Blues will continue to push for Rice's return to Stamford Bridge, having released the England international at the age of 14, ahead of pursuing Tchouameni further.
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He told GMS: "Tchouameni was just an opportunity that arose during the window. They seem to think a lot of him and they know there will be competition for Tchouameni when the time comes.
"Ultimately, Chelsea have other priorities in that position. Declan Rice is one that everybody knows about."
How has Tchouameni performed this season?
Tchouameni has already made nine Monaco appearances this term and, despite being known for his defensive ability, showed his prowess going forward by scoring in the Champions League qualifying win over Czech Republic side Sparta Prague last month.
The midfielder's fine form has been rewarded at international level as well, as he won his first three France caps earlier this month.
Despite still being in the early stages of his career, Tchouameni has made 54 appearances for his current employers since joining from domestic rivals Bordeaux, where he came through the ranks, in January 2020.