Claude Makelele has admitted to helping Real Madrid sign former Chelsea target Aurelien Tchouameni. The 22-year-old was heavily linked with a move to Stamford Bridge in the summer but, due to the Blues' reluctancy to wrap up a deal, the Spanish giants swooped in and signed the midfielder instead.
The west Londoners have been left to rue the decision not to sign the France international, with N'Golo Kante and Jorginho set to leave the club once their deals expire at the end of the season. Chelsea held an interest in Tchouameni ever since he began his career at Bordeaux, football.london understands.
At one stage, the Blues even had an edge in the race to sign the Frenchman. But, as Roman Abramovich handed over the reins to Todd Boehly's consortium, a £85million move collapsed.
