Chelsea 'given boost in pursuit of Bayer Leverkusen star Kai Havertz'

Chelsea have reportedly been given a clear run at signing Kai Havertz as Real Madrid and Bayern Munich have pulled out of the race for the Bayer Leverkusen forward.

The Germany international has a combined 24 goals and assists in all competitions this season, leading to rumoured interest from a number of European heavyweights.

Madrid had been considered the favourites to land the 21-year-old, but The Express claims that Los Blancos will delay making an offer for another 12 months.

Bayern boss Hansi Flick confirmed earlier this month that he is eager to bring Havertz to the Allianz Arena, meanwhile, but the same report indicates that the German champions are not in a position to make a bid.

That could prove good news for Chelsea, with the Blues willing to continue spending big this summer after already agreeing deals for Hakim Ziyech and Timo Werner.

Havertz, who last month became the first Bundesliga player to reach 35 goals before the age of 21, is thought to be valued in the region of £90m by Leverkusen.