Bayern Munich have confirmed they are out of the race to sign Kai Havertz - giving Chelsea a free run at the German star.
Havertz, 21, is Frank Lampard’s No.1 target as he seeks to further add to his Blues side.
Havertz enjoyed an outstanding 2019-20 campaign, scoring 17 times for Bayer Leverkusen.
And he has reached an agreement with Bayer to move this summer if their valuation is met.
Chelsea have been pushing to bring him to Stamford Bridge, but Bayern’s interest has long been touted, with club chiefs keen to take him to the Allianz Arena.
However, having spent big on Leroy Sane already, in the wake of the coronavirus they have made clear they aren’t in a financial position to also move for the Bundesliga’s brightest young star.
Now Hoeness has insisted that there will be no more major deals in Bavaria - unless Bayern sell one or two of their own big names.
"I am sure that after Leroy Sane there will be no major transfers this year," Bayern's honorary president told German newspaper FAZ.
"This has nothing to do with the quality of Havertz. We all think he is a very, very good player.
"But in the corona period after a transfer of almost €50million, one of €70-80million or more, I can't imagine making unless we secure counter-financing through player sales.”
Bayer sporting director Rudi Voller has been hopeful that Havertz can be persuaded to remain one more year, staying to then move to the German champions in 2021.
But with Leverkusen missing out on Champions League football next term, Havertz is desperate to move now to test himself against Europe’s elite - something Chelsea can offer.
Blues director Marina Granovskaia has held talks with Leverkusen chiefs over a move and is confident a deal can be reached - although no official bid has been lodged.
Leverkusen are due to face Rangers in the second leg of their Europa League last 16 tie this week.
It remains to be seen if Havertz will take part.
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