According to a report from The Athletic, Real Madrid were among several clubs keeping tabs on Yves Bissouma before the Malian midfielder chose to join Tottenham Hotspur in the summer transfer window.

Bissouma had established himself as one of the most consistent performers in the Premier League during his time with Brighton & Hove Albion. His all-round qualities in the middle of the park led to interest from some top clubs across Europe.

From England, the likes of Manchester United and Liverpool were keeping a close watch on the 26-year-old Malian international. Along with them, La Liga heavyweights Real Madrid were also monitoring the midfield star.

However, Bissouma eventually ended up choosing to sign for Tottenham Hotspur. Real Madrid, meanwhile, brought in Aurelien Tchouameni to reinforce their midfield department, landing the Frenchman from AS Monaco in a deal that could reach €100 million.

The 22-year-old has settled in brilliantly at the Santiago Bernabeu, quickly becoming a permanent fixture in the middle of the park in Carlo Ancelotti’s side.

With Casemiro being sold to Manchester United in the summer, Tchouameni has seamlessly taken over the reins of the holding midfield position for the champions of Spain and Europe.

Indeed, the entire Real Madrid dressing room and the coaching staff have been left hugely impressed with the adaptation as well as the impact made by the former Bordeaux prospect since joining the club.

Meanwhile, Bissouma has struggled to get a foothold into Antonio Conte’s side at Tottenham. The 26-year-old has played just 160 minutes of football across all competitions so far for the north London club, starting only one game so far.