Yahoo Sports Chelsea and Aston Villa ‘submit offers’ for in-demand centre-forward
Chelsea and Aston Villa have both ‘submitted concrete offers’ to sign Germany forward Maximilian Beier.
The 21-year-old is one of the most sought-after players in the summer transfer window after scoring 16 league goals during a breakthrough Bundesliga campaign at Hoffenheim, having returned from a loan spell in the second tier at Hannover 96.
Beier’s performances earned him a place in the Germany squad for Euro 2024, where he made one appearance off the bench during their group stage draw with Switzerland.
Manchester United and Brentford have been linked with a move for the striker this summer, while Liverpool were reportedly interested last year.
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Chelsea and Villa appear to be ahead of the pack, though, after making ‘contact’ with the player this week, according to Sky Germany.
Bayer Leverkusen are said to be ‘still in the race’ for Beier, who has a €30 million release clause in contract.
However, none of his suitors have opened negotiations with Hoffenheim, while the player himself has not reached a ‘verbal agreement’ with any clubs. Beier is expected to make a ‘final decision’ on his future in the next fortnight.
Man United are likely out of the race after signing Joshua Zirkzee, while Villa could sign Beier as a backup to Ollie Watkins, with Jhon Duran potentially heading to Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea have been on the hunt for another forward this summer, although Beier may just be a contingency in case they fail in their bid to capture Victor Osimhen from Napoli. The Nigerian could head to west London in a swap deal that involves Romelu Lukaku going in the other direction.
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