The election of a new prime minister in France is turning into a thriller. According to sources cited by Le Monde, Emanuel Macron has informed François Bayrou that he will not be appointed to the post left vacant by Michel Barnier during a tense exchange of views.

The same sources said the French president called Francois Bayrou early this morning to inform him of his decision. Bairoux went “loaded” to Elise a few hours later and had a heated discussion with Macron for about an hour and 45 minutes.

The French head of state reportedly offered him the position of “number two” in the government, with Rolande Lesur as prime minister. The MoDem party president declined and proposed Bernard Casnév for Matignon, an alternative rejected by Macron.

Thus, while the Elysée had announced last night that the transfer of power between Michel Barnier and his successor was expected to be completed late Friday morning, however, according to Le Monde, negotiations appear to be continuing.