Chelsea are targeting Monaco midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni, according to ESPN. The website claims the Blues’ pursuit of the 20-year-old will continue “with or without” Frank Lampard as manager.

The France Under 20 international has made 17 senior appearances for Monaco this season, scoring no goals and providing two assists, and Chelsea’s recruitment team are thought to be very keen to seal a deal for the player.

Tchouameni only moved to the Ligue One side from Bordeaux for €18m (£16m) last January but he has quickly established himself as a key member of Niko Kovac’s first-team squad.

The likelihood of him moving during the current transfer window is unlikely, with Monaco keen to keep hold of one of their prized assets. However, the situation might be different at the end of the season.

ESPN claim a number of European clubs are keeping tabs on Tchouameni so Chelsea may have a fight on their hands if they want to secure the Frenchman’s signature.