Chelsea join the race for Werner as they 'made direct contact' with the striker

Chelsea have made direct contact with Timo Werner’s camp to discuss a deal for the RB Leipzig striker, according to reports in Germany.

Liverpool have been heavily linked with a move for Werner, while reports this week claimed that Jurgen Klopp is keen to meet with the striker.

But according to Kicker, the Premier League leaders face serious competition for Werner as Chelsea have also made an approach.

Lampard made no secret of his desire to sign a new striker in the January transfer window, but Chelsea, who were heavily linked with PSG’s Cavani, were unable to get a deal over the line.

However, Lampard is expected to try again this summer and Chelsea have reportedly made an initial move for Werner.

Werner, who has a €60 million (£52m) release clause in his deal with Leipzig, was close to joining Bayern Munich last summer.

The German champions had the opportunity to sign the Germany international for just €25m, but they opted to sign Philippe Coutinho on loan from Barcelona instead.