CHELSEA target Kai Havertz has told Bayer Leverkusen he is ready to take the “next step” of his career.
Frank Lampard’s side have been heavily linked with a summer move for the £90million-rated forward.
And Chelsea have been handed a huge boost in their mission to sign the 21-year-old.
Leverkusen CEO Fernando Carro has revealed what Havertz told the club during showdown talks.
Carro told German paper Kolner Stadt-Anzeiger: “It was always clear that we will have talks once the Europa League season concluded.
“Kai has voiced his desire to make the next step.
“At the moment, I can’t say whether this will work out in the near future or not.”
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Sporting director Rudi Voller has insisted Havertz can leave if “certain requirements are met”.
He told Kicker: “No decision has been made yet.
“I’d like to repeat myself by emphasising that we’re talking about a wonderful footballer.
“There is nothing new in this regard.
“We have a clear and mutual agreement with him and his representatives that he can only leave if certain requirements are met. Otherwise he will stay.”
Chelsea have reportedly agreed a five-year deal to sign the seven-cap German international.
But the two clubs are yet to reach an agreement over a transfer fee for Havertz.
Lampard is determined to sign him after sealing deals for Timo Werner and Hakim Ziyech.
