Chelsea 'in talks to snap up Germany sensation Armel Bella-Kotchap' from Bochum

Chelsea are reportedly leading the way in the transfer chase for VfL Bochum starlet Armel Bella-Kotchap.

Despite the 18-year-old having only penned his first senior contract with the Bundesliga 2 outfit last year, Bella-Kotchap is believed to be valued at £6.5million after several stellar performances.

And SunSport understands that Chelsea are locked in talks to snap up the young defender.

The same publication states that the Premier League side have already made contact with the prodigy's representatives ahead of a potential summer swoop.

A host of other European clubs are also touted to be circling, with Manchester United, Manchester City, Barcelona and Real Madrid among those keeping a close eye on the situation.

The Paris-born stalwart recently signed a new deal to remain in Germany until 2024, but VfL Bochum are purportedly open to entertaining offers.

Bella-Kotchap represents his nation at youth level, and has been awarded five Under-18 caps so far.

Frank Lampard has eased several academy graduates into the first-team fold at Stamford Bridge this season, and could be tempted to secure the signature of another highly-rated youngster in west London at the end of the campaign.

According to reports, the Blues boss has also identified Trabzonspor goalkeeper Ugurcan Cakir as a potential replacement for the under-fire Kepa Arrizabalaga.