Real Madrid surrender £60m advantage to Chelsea as Thomas Tuchel gifted Declan Rice backup plan

Real Madrid have surrendered their lead in the race to sign Aurelien Tchouameni, handing Chelsea a major boost ahead of the upcoming transfer window. The 22-year-old was on the Blues' shopping list in the summer, but the board opted against signing him because they felt as if the midfielder could've done with another 12 months of development, as per The Athletic.

Tchouameni has continued to impress for Monaco this season, featuring 47 times across all competitions. The France international, whose price tag ranges from £65m to £83m, has guided the French outfit within touching distance of Champions League qualification.

understands that Chelsea have spent more time monitoring Tchouameni's progress than any other club. But, despite the Blues' best efforts, last month the Daily Telegraph reported that Carlo Ancelotti's side overtook Thomas Tuchel's side in the race for the Frenchman's signature.

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The Spanish giants have looked odds-on favourites to sign Tchouameni since Roman Abramovich was sanctioned by the UK Government, but Real Madrid have got cold feet.

Los Blancos have been put off by Monaco's aforementioned evaluation, as per AS via MailOnline. While Chelsea's takeover saga enters the business end of the season, Tuchel has been given a boost in his mission to bolster the midfielder ahead of next season - especially as doubt looms over whether the west Londoners can mount a bid for Declan Rice amid Manchester United's growing interest in the West Ham vice-captain.

understands that Rice has been a long-term target for Chelsea, who have been following his development at London Stadium very closely. Though there could be a