Bayer Leverkusen sporting director Rudi Voller claims there is “nothing new” to report on Kai Havertz, amid ongoing talk of interest from Chelsea, with all suitors of the talented 21-year-old warned that no “corona discount” will be handed out this summer.
A highly-rated Germany international playmaker has emerged as a top target for leading sides across Europe.
Leverkusen are aware that they have a much sought-after asset on their hands and have made it clear that they will not be parting with Havertz without a fight.
If their demands are met then a sale could be sanctioned, but a hot prospect will only be allowed to move on if the price is right.
No side has tabled a suitable offer as yet, with Chelsea still some way short in their efforts to get a deal over the line, and that means that Havertz is staying put.
Voller told Sport Buzzer when asked for an update on a long-running transfer saga: “There is nothing new in this regard, and we are still very relaxed about it,.
“Of course, we would be very happy if he stayed for another year. It is clear that the departure of such a player, despite the high transfer fee, always means a loss - see Leipzig and [Timo] Werner.”
Leverkusen are aware that their resolve is likely to be tested on a regular basis before the next deadline passes.
They will, however, not be relaxing their stance for anyone.
Financial implications of the coronavirus pandemic are forcing many clubs to tighten their belts, and asking prices to drop, but Voller says Havertz will only leave his current surroundings for full market value.
He added: “In times of corona, it may actually be that the transfer fees have decreased for many players.
“But corona or no corona, this is not the case with exceptional players like Havertz or Jadon Sancho. There is no corona discount for them.
“What makes Kai Havertz so interesting is the fact that he embodies world-class in four or five positions.”
Chelsea have already wrapped up deals for Hakim Ziyech and Timo Werner, while Leicester left-back Ben Chilwell is closing on a switch to Stamford Bridge, and the Premier League heavyweights are expected to retain their interest in Havertz as Frank Lampard seeks to land another exciting performer.
