Chelsea will attempt to sign Bayer Leverkusen star Kai Havertz in the upcoming transfer window according to the Daily Mail.
Havertz has been one of the top performers since Bundesliga’s restart, scoring five times in four games.
The 20 year old can be Chelsea’s second big name signing from the German top flight with the club reportedly having agreed a deal in principle with RB Leipzig’s Timo Werner.
However, the Blues will have to ward off interest from top European clubs including Bayern Munich and Real Madrid if they are to secure the young German’s signature.
Chelsea will also have to spend a considerable amount to sign him with his market valuation currently being more than £75m.
Blues manager Frank Lampard wants to replace ageing wide stars Willian and Pedro this summer and Havertz has been identified as a key target to do the same.
He can play across the front line and in behind the striker as a number 10 and is touted for his clever movement and deadly finishing.
With Hakim Ziyech already due to arrive from Ajax, Chelsea seem to be undertaking a massive expenditure outlay to catch up with Liverpool and Manchester City after facing a transfer ban the previous summer.
Bayer’s sporting director Simon Rolfes said: ‘We don’t know yet what will happen to Kai.
‘We know that all the great clubs from Germany and Europe are after him and that he has the ability to play anywhere.’
The club is also heavily linked with Leicester left back Ben Chilwell and Ajax shot stopper Andre Onana but Lampard is ready to continue with current goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga if they are to dedicate funds elsewhere.
Kepa has had a dreadful season and played second fiddle to Willy Caballero in early 2020 but started the last few games before the lockdown break.
With most clubs looking to cut down on expenses due to reduced income forced by the break, the transfer market can be expected to deflate a little at least and Chelsea can take advantage of the same.
Pulling off the signing of both Werner and Havertz would be a major coup on part of owner Roman Abramovic and will force Chelsea back into the conversation for the Premier League title.
