Transfer insider reveals Leverkusen fearful of announcing Havertz exit

Bayer Leverkusen are holding off on an announcement about Kai Havertz’ departure to Chelsea because they are no closer to securing a replacement, according to a transfer expert.

After months of negotiations, Chelsea agreed a deal with Leverkusen to sign the exciting attacking midfielder. The Blues will pay £72million up front, with a further £18million in add-ons.

Indeed, that agreement came after the German side rejected the Blues’ earlier – and lower – bid.

Despite Chelsea and Leverkusen reaching a deal for Havertz, however, talk of the deal has cooled in recent days.

According to transfer insider Jan Aage Fjortoft, the delay is because Leverkusen would like to have found a replacement by the time the deal goes through.

He wrote on Twitter“Re: Havertz Seems like the main – reason for the delay of a public confirmation of the deal, is that Leverkusen would have liked to be further in replacing him.

“It’s strategy. After a big Havertz-fee….any replacement will be more expensive. That’s the name of the game.”

 

 

Havertz will be Chelsea’s fourth major acquisition in recent months after Hakim Ziyech, Timo Werner and Ben Chilwell.

Indeed, Chilwell is the latest signing, the west London club confirming his arrival on Wednesday.

The former Leicester left-back has moved to Stamford Bridge on a five-year contract. He will reportedly earn £190,000 per week.

Havertz’ fee will add to Chelsea’s already significant level of spending this summer. Ziyech and Werner cost Frank Lampard’s side £73.5million.

Chilwell’s £50million arrival takes that total to £123.5million and Havertz will increase that figure to over £200million.

CHELSEA TO FOCUS ON SALES

Emerson, Kepa Arrizabalaga

Chelsea will likely meet their transfer splurge with several first-team sales.

According to the latest report, the Blues have immediately told four players they no longer have a future at the club.

Michy Batshuayi, Emerson Palmieri, Tiemoue Bakayoko and Davide Zappacosta will all leave before the October 5 deadline.

Indeed, striker Batshuayi and left-back Emerson seem likely to go after the arrivals of Werner and Chilwell.

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