Bayer Leverkusen’s versatile German forward Kai Havertz has left his country’s national camp in Stuttgart to complete his move to Chelsea, according to reports in Germany.
The 21 year-old was called-up for Die Mannschaft’s UEFA Nations League tournament fixtures against Spain and Switzerland, but was an unused substitute in their 1-1 draw against the Spaniards last night.
It is alleged, the forward was left out to avoid any injury-repercussions ahead of his proposed-move to the west London outfit.
According to Bild journalist Christian Falk, Havertz left the Stuttgart facility this morning and is not expected to return for the side’s match against the Swiss.
Havertz is due to arrive in London later today to complete the deal, ahead of a reported €100 million move, which includes an initial fee of €80 million, plus an additional €20 million.
Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano reiterated the reports and suggested the contract, which is set to expire in June 2025, had already been signed, with The Blues expecting to confirm the announcement within ‘a matter of time.’
Kai Havertz’s record-breaking 2019-20 Bundesliga campaign
The 21 year-old scored 18 times and provided nine assists in 45 appearances across all competitions last campaign. His goal on the opening day of the league season against Paderborn saw him become the second-youngest player in Bundesliga history to score 25 goals, behind Horst Köppel.
He also became the youngest ever player to record a century of Bundesliga appearances at the age of 20 years, six months and four days, however, it came in the form of a 2-0 defeat to Köln in December.
In reaching the milestone, he broke the previous record held by compatriot Timo Werner, whom he would rejoin at Stamford Bridge.
Welcome to The Blues
Kai Havertz would become the sixth high-profile summer signing for Chelsea, following the acquisitions of Hakim Ziyech, the aforementioned Werner, Ben Chilwell, Malang Sarr and Thiago Silva.
He will undoubtedly be a welcomed-addition to Frank Lampard‘s contingent of promising, young and exciting talent, and will certainly help The Blues’ chances of contending for the Premier League and domestic silverware.
However, the €100 million price tag will surely weigh a great deal on the 21 year-old’s shoulders. He could follow in the footsteps of former Leverkusen greats such as Michael Ballack and André Schürrle at the club, but only time will tell whether the fee will pay dividends.
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