Manchester United and Chelsea are preparing for a tug of war to seal the signature of Monaco youngster Aurelien Tchouameni.

The 21-year-old is someone the Blues hierarchy have always found appealing.

The club is aware of needing to strengthen the central midfield area, per football.london.

However, Belgian journalist Sacha Tavolieristates has stated that United are interested in signing Aurélien Tchouaméni and are in talks with his agency.

He added: "It's possible that United will make an opening bid to AS Monaco for Tchouaméni before the transfer window closes."

If United can secure the central midfielder in the coming weeks, it would be a major blow to Chelsea's summer recruitment drive.

Tchouaméni has represented France at the Under-21 level.