Bayern Munich is reportedly considering loaning Real Madrid midfielder Aurélien Tchouaméni, according to Sport1.

After the Rekordmeister’s attempt to entice Declan Rice to Bavaria fell through, the Real Madrid player is seen as Thomas Tuchel’s ideal replacement. Bayern has spoken with Tchouaméni’s management about the possibility of a loan if Real Madrid is unwilling to sell the 23-year-old.

However, the German champions have not yet formally approached the French midfielder, and it might be some time before they do. The Bayern camp is aware that Tchouaméni might become available later in August as a result of the competition in Real Madrid’s midfield.

Tuchel revealed to the media on Tuesday that Bayern are still looking for a future number six: “In my perspective, there are just a select few players who can improve us. These players occasionally become unavailable, things occasionally occur that we are unaware of, or things occasionally don’t happen for a few weeks. Let’s check, we’re at ease.

Although Tchouaméni would be the Bayern manager’s first choice, the Rekordmeister has other options. Edson Lvarez, the failed Borussia Dortmund signing, is still well-liked in Munich and a trade may be made there, but Tuchel is holding out for a player with established talent in a top-tier league in Europe.