Chelsea's Aurelien Tchouameni valuation leaves Declan Rice transfer in trouble amid takeover

Chelsea has been gifted with a lifeline for the signing of Aurelien Tchouameni. The young Frenchman was tipped to be leaving his club for Real Madrid. He has been a long term target for Chelsea so knowing that he could possibly move to the same club that is taking Antonio Rudiger away, leaves a bitter taste.

However, the Blues have another chance to snatch up Europe's hottest midfielder as the Los Blancos have pulled out of the race. According to the Daily Mail, the £60 million price tag placed on him repelled Madrid leaving Chelsea, Manchester United, Arsenal and Liverpool to fight for his signature. This could mean that Chelsea will have to make a choice between him and a fan favourite.

Former England defender urges Chelsea to make huge Jorginho contract decision amid transfer links

It's no secret that Declan Rice is hoping to find his way back to Cobham. He has been open about wanting to leave West Ham before his contract expires in 2024, and is reportedly interested in a move to Chelsea. The only problem is his price tag. West Ham has placed a whopping £100 million tag on their captain leaving Chelsea in a sticky situation. The thought of buying both Rice and Tchouameni could mean the rest of the squad goes untouched.

Realistically, £160 million for two midfielders is just not good business. No matter how much money the club possesses after the takeover, it just does not feel right. The Roman Abramovich era has now passed so whoever takes the mantle in the upcoming weeks will need to make smart decisions. In a time when Chelsea, Manchester United, Arsenal and Liverpool all need a midfielder of Tchouameni's calibre, the fight will end with the team that is willing to pony up on the hefty deal. Based on history,