Chelsea reportedly have a 'long-term' interest in Brighton midfielder Yves Bissouma. With the speculation of Aurélien Tchouaméni choosing a Real Madrid move ahead of a move to Stamford Bridge, the Blues have found a stellar alternative. The summer transfer window will expect Thomas Tuchel's side to make moves in the market as they prepare for a squad rebuild. Defenders will be first on Tuchel's list, but a midfielder would be just as important of a slot to fill for next season.
N'Golo Kante, Mateo Kovacic and Jorginho have been exhausted throughout this past season, and it is far to say that another quality midfielder is needed. But not for a ridiculous price. Tchouaméni has been a Chelsea target since the last summer transfer window. It has been near impossible to get a deal negotiated with AS Monaco for the Frenchman with the sanctions imposed on the club, but now that the price tag has been revealed, it's time to assess alternatives.
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According to a report from Marca, via the Daily Mail, earlier this year, AS Monaco set £83million for Tchouaméni. I would love to have the 22-year-old star make a move to West London, but unfortunately, he is no longer the priority signing. Chelsea needs to buy at least two centre-backs and possibly a left and right wing-back option.
The cry for a midfielder has been desperate this past season as injuries took a toll on Kante, Jorginho and Kovacic. Tchouameni could be what Edouardo Camavinga is to Real Madrid. Fresh, energetic legs that trouble the midfield of any opposition in his way. But so could Yves Bissouma.
Bissouma has shown great promises and put on masterclass performances against the Blues last season. He has been Brighton's stand out player for several seasons now, and it has been a wonder as to why a club like Chelsea hadn't considered him before.
Tuchel needs a midfielder that can do the basics. A star signing is not necessary for a time like this. I must remind Chelsea fans of our history with big-name signings. It hasn't always gone too well. There is an advantage in having a £31.5 million valued Bissouma over an £83 million Tchouaméni. One is Premier League proven, whilst the other enters a territory unknown to him.
It's always a risk bringing in another midfielder from a different league. They could either end up like Manchester City's Rodri with a slow start but, in the end, extremely effective or could end up like Timoue Bakayoko, who never really acclimatised to the Premier League.
