Kai Havertz has informed Chelsea of his desire to leave the club this summer ahead of Mauricio Pochettino’s arrival at Stamford Bridge. The 23-year-old German was viewed as one of the most exciting talents in Europe when he completed a £72m move from Bayer Leverkusen in 2020, but has only scored 32 goals in 139 appearances for Chelsea, despite often being used as a striker. His best position remains unclear and Havertz is unwilling to see if Pochettino’s arrival improves his fortunes at Chelsea. According to The Guardian, Havertz has told Chelsea chiefs he wants to move on this summer for a fresh challenge and still has two years left on his contract, but is has no intention of signing an extension. Chelsea are reportedly looking for £75m for Havertz amid interest from Real Madrid following Karim Benzema’s shock move away from the Bernabeu. Madrid have made Tottenham captain Harry Kane their top target to replace Benzema but are also admirers of Havertz, who is naturally keen to join the Spanish giants.
Havertz will not be the only high-profile player to leave Stamford Bridge, with Mateo Kovacic and Mason Mount closing in on moves away from Chelsea. Kovacic is believed to be in talks with Premier League champions Manchester City while Mount is a top target for Erik ten Hag’s Manchester United. Chelsea are also expected to sell frustrated winger Christian Pulisic and former United States goalkeeper Kasey Keller believes it is time for his compatriot to leave west London. Keller suggested that Pulisic should go somewhere and play, rather than trying to revive his career at Chelsea under Pochettino.