Real Madrid have rejected “several offers” from Premier League teams for Aurelien Tchouameni in recent weeks, according to Defensa Central.

The Spanish website claims that Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool and Newcastle have all “asked” about signing the France international but they were all knocked back by Real president Florentino Perez.

Tchouameni was linked to the Gunners a couple of weeks ago, although it was reported at the time that the London club were only weighing up a potential approach if they weren’t able to sign Brighton’s Moises Caicedo or Southampton’s Romeo Lavia.

It would, therefore, be a surprise if Mikel Arteta’s side actually made a formal offer for the Tchouameni, although it is certainly possible that some sort of enquiry was made.

Why would Arsenal be interested in signing another midfielder after recruiting Declan Rice?

Considering that the Gunners have already broken the transfer record for a British player by signing Rice, some fans may be asking why the club are seeking more reinforcements in midfield.

It is thought that, if Thomas Partey does leave the Emirates this summer, then another central midfielder would be pursued in order to maintain squad depth.

Partey has been linked with a move to Saudi Arabia, but it has been suggested that he would prefer to stay in Europe, with Serie A side Juventus also believed to be keen on securing his services.

Tchouameni would probably cost too much

Even if the Frenchman were available, it is hard to see Arsenal possessing the funds required to sign him. After all, Real paid €100m (£85m), including add-ons, for the player last summer and they wouldn’t be prepared to offload him for a cut-price deal.

As the Gunners have already splashed out in excess of £200m, it’s hard to see where the money for Tchouameni would come from, unless the London club can raise the amount needed through sales.

It is a lot more likely that sporting director Edu will be looking at cheaper alternatives. Based on reports in recent days, it appears as though he is eyeing a bargain in the Brazilian market.

Gremio’s Bitello and Fluminense’s Andre have been mentioned as potential targets over the past week. It has even been claimed that officials from England have flown out to discuss a potential deal for Bitello but we shall see how things develop.

In terms of Tchoumeni, it is not a transfer that Arsenal fans should anticipate happening this summer.