Bayer Leverkusen are showing interest in Middlesbrough's England U20 international Marcus Tavernier.
The 19-year-old winger was part of the England's U19 European Championship squad in Finland last year and was promoted to train with England's first team last September.
He has made 18 appearances for Boro this season and scored four goals. He can also fill in at left-back.
Leverkusen are expecting bids this summer for some of their own young talents, notably Julian Brandt, Leon Bailey and Kai Havertz and are laying the groundwork to bolster their squad.
They have watched Tavernier in the Championship and on international duty and are continuing to monitor his progress as they weigh up making an offer.
Bundesliga clubs are widely recruiting young English-based talent as they recognise they don't have the same opportunities to break into first teams here that can be offered in Germany.
Tavernier has two years left on contract.
