Chelsea are in a strong position to sign Kai Havertz from Bayer Leverkusen, with manager Frank Lampard speaking to the midfielder about a move to Stamford Bridge, according to the Athletic.
The Blues have been the front runners for the highly-coveted youngster despite interest from the likes of Real Madrid and Bayern Munich, and their move looks to have taken a step closer as they are reportedly the only club willing to meet the Bundesliga side's asking price - thought to be around £73million.
Havertz's performances in the German top flight have made him one of the most sought-after players in Europe - scoring 17 goals in all competitions and providing eight assists from midfield.
Lampard has already shown his ambition for the club ahead of next season by signing Hakim Ziyech from Ajax and Havertz' compatriot Timo Werner from Leipzig, and now he appears to be on the verge of another coup after the report claimed he has held talks with the 21-year-old.
Havertz is keen on a move to Stamford Bridge, the Athletic adds, with personal terms not thought to be an issue in negotiations. The player was said to favour a move to Madrid but the club are unlikely to make a big money move at this time.
Los Blancos chief Florentino Perez warned that the club face financial difficulties and that fans should not expect to see any Galacticos in coming this summer, saying: 'The situation is very bad and there will be no great signings.'
The midfielder won't be put off joining the team should they fail to qualify for the Champions League, the report continues, with the starlet attracted to the club's vision, their group of young players and the presence of Lampard.
He would be linking up with fellow German Werner, who was snapped up for £53m and another star who was persuaded by Lampard as Chelsea moved fast to land him amid serious interest in Europe.
Reports in Germany last week claimed the star had already 'decided to join Chelsea' while Bayern Munich are said to be abandoning plans to rival the Premier League side as they look for cheaper options.
The German champions have already made a big-money signing as they brought in Leroy Sane from Manchester City for around £40m, while Barcelona also lack the strength to challenge Chelsea.
While PSG would have the financial muscle to launch a bid, they are not thought to be a desired desination for Havertz. Manchester United have also been linked, but their top priority is landing fellow Bundesliga star Jadon Sancho - who could cost around £100m.
Chelsea continued their confident season under Lampard by moving into the FA Cup final on Sunday after beating Manchester United 3-1, and look on course to finish in the top four, which would only boost their hopes of landing Havertz.