Chelsea stepping up efforts to sign Aurelien Tchouameni

Chelsea are stepping up their efforts to sign Monaco midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni, according to Goal.

The Frenchman is regarded as one of the best young midfielders in Ligue 1. He has already become a regular with the national team.

His performances have caught the eye of several elite clubs, and the Blues are deemed to be one of the front-runners to sign him.

They were linked with his services over the summer, but did not make an approach. The club instead opted to sign Saul Niguez on loan.

Niguez has been largely disappointing in his temporary stint from Atletico Madrid. The Blues may not take the option to buy him.

It is now reported that the Blues are intensively scouting Tchouameni's performances, and could make an offer at the end of the season.

Monaco valued their asset at around £35 million earlier this year, but they are now expected to demand at least £50m amid widespread interest.

Juventus have also been heavily linked with his services in recent months.