One of Liverpool’s ‘transfer targets’ has no interest in joining the club, according to reports.
Liverpool currently sit at the top of the Premier League, with life starting almost perfectly for new manager Arne Slot.
One difficulty Slot has encountered in his first few months has been getting key transfers over the line.
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Despite recruiting Federico Chiesa – who is still adjusting to life in England – and Giorgi Mamardashvili – who was loaned straight back to Valencia – the Reds found transfer dealings tough.
Their interest in Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi was well-known, but the player snubbed a move to Merseyside in favour of staying in La Liga.
Ryan Gravenberch has stepped into the ‘six’ role, impressing supporters with his composed performances. However, concern over squad depth in midfield positions remains.
Unfortunately for Liverpool fans, Relevo journalist Matteo Moretto has revealed Aurélien Tchouaméni, 24, has ‘no interest’ in joining the club despite several reports linking him with a move from Real Madrid.
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It is thought that Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti sees the player as part of his plans as the Spaniards look to retain their La Liga and Champions League titles this season.
The French midfielder has featured in eight of Los Blancos’ nine league games this term.
His role will likely become more important next season as Luka Modric’s contract is set to expire in June 2025.
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Ancelotti expressed his admiration for Tchouameni after Madrid’s 2-0 win against Real Betis in September.
"Tchouaméni is a fantastic defensive midfielder,” he explained.
“At a defensive level, he [is] IRREPLACEABLE. He helps our defence a lot."
However, not everyone is so keen on the player. Reports from several Spanish media outlets suggest Tchouameni has endured a difficult start to the season, with Managing Madrid highlighting that “he is just not letting his intelligence show”.
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“Part of that is actually on Ancelotti, but most of it is Tchouameni,” the outlet explained.
“The way he has carried himself, the lack of idea in his passes, being slow to press, slow to tackle, slow to track back. It is not the same Tchouameni from last season.”
Before the January transfer window, Liverpool are likely to be linked to various transfer targets. But Slot will be hoping Gravenberch can become consistent enough that Liverpool do not need a ‘starter’ brought in.
Topics: Liverpool, Real Madrid, Arne Slot, Aurelien Tchouameni
Luke Davies