CHELSEA are in advanced talks to sign Kai Havertz after the player told Bayer Leverkusen he wants to leave the club, according to reports.
Blues chiefs have negotiated a five-year deal worth around £7.1million-a-year after holding talks with the player’s agent.
Chelsea are closing in on signing HavertzCredit: EPA
One issue left to iron out is the asking price with Leverkusen demanding £90million for his signature.
Boss Frank Lampard is hoping to get his deals concluded early following the arrivals of striker Timo Werner and Hakim Ziyech.
The Germany playmaker has become one of the most sought-after players in world football following another terrific Bundesliga campaign.
Real Madrid and Bayern Munich have both been linked with moves for his signature but it appears Chelsea are desperate to press ahead with transfer plans.
Reports by sports journalist Nicolo Schira claim that Havertz has asked Leverkusen chiefs to let him leave in the light of Chelsea’s transfer interest.
The move will be considered a huge coup for Lampard as he looks to bolster his attack next season.
Havertz still has a contract until the summer of 2022 and Leverkusen want big money to let him leave.
The talented 21-year-old has scored 12 league goals and six assists this season as his side sit fifth in the league.
Lampard is preparing to trim down his squad and sell at least six names in order to raise funds to sign Havertz.
Michy Batshuayi, Marcos Alonso, Danny Drinkwater, Tiemoue Bakayoko, Kenedy and Emerson Palmieri could all be heading for the exit door.
Leverkusen’s sporting director Rudi Voller insisted the player can leave if a club meets their demands.
He told Bild: “We have an agreement – if it fits, he can go this summer.
“As of now, he is a player of ours. We have our ideas, we know what he can do.
“I personally hope that he stays one more year. Of course, you can’t force anyone.
“Havertz knows what he owes to his colleagues, the fans and club.”
Lampard is also expected to press ahead with his plans to sign a left-back and is eyeing a move for Leicester’s Ben Chilwell.
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Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
