Chelsea could miss out on Youssoufa Moukoko after Newcastle made a substantial verbal approach for the Borussia Dortmund wonderkid.
The 18-year-old Germany international is thought to have discussed a deal worth over £150,000 a week to join Newcastle on a free transfer when his contract expires at the end of the season.
Chelsea and Barcelona are among the clubs known to be interested in Moukoko, who played for Germany at the World Cup in Qatar.
Dortmund are trying to tie Moukoko down to a new deal but are struggling to reach his wage demands and Newcastle are well-placed to beat Chelsea to his signature.
Saudi-backed Newcastle are targeting Champions League qualification and securing the best free transfers is part of their strategy to comply with Financial Fair Play (FFP) regulations.
FFP constraints are set to slow Newcastle’s spending plans following their takeover by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund last year.
Chelsea have targeted Moukoko, who has scored six goals in 22 appearances for Dortmund this season, as their new owners continue to invest in top young talent.
The Blues are expected to sign Atletico Madrid forward Joao Felix on loan and are reportedly keen on Borussia Monchengladbach striker Marcus Thuram.
