Chelsea are closing on the signing of RB Leipzig striker Timo Werner.
Werner has established himself as one of Europe's most sought-after players, after enjoying a stunning season at Leipzig, scoring 31 goals in all competitions.
football.london understands the Blues are in advanced talks with the German side and are ready to activate the Germany striker's €55million release clause before it expires on June 15.
The Blues look set to beat off competition from Liverpool, who were also thought to be keen on signing the forward, and Frank Lampard may have one of his own players to thank.
Sport Bild previously claimed that Chelsea defender Antonio Rudiger had been trying to convince Werner to snub Liverpool’s advances and join him at Stamford Bridge.
But last week Liverpool indicated that they would not be meeting that price despite the striker favouring a move to Anfield.
And as Liverpool made their stance clear, Chelsea have swooped for the striker with the help of Rudiger.
He and Werner are friends from their time with the German national team and Stuttgart prior to their respective careers taking off.
Rudiger is said to be keen to see his friend join him at Chelsea as Lampard looks to build an attack capable of challenging the Premier League elite.
Chelsea have already agreed a deal to sign the Moroccan star Hakim Ziyech from Ajax in the next transfer window, after confirming a deal in February.
