Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Bayer Leverkusen's director of sport Rudi Voller has confirmed he has held talks with Chelsea over the transfer of Germany international Andre Schurrle to the Blues.
Voller flew to London yesterday along with Leverkusen's general manager Michael Reschke to negotiate with Chelsea.
Leverkusen turned down a bid believed to be in the region of 25 million Euros for Schurrle last summer, but now appear open to a transfer.
"Yes, I was in London and we have held talks," said Voller to Germany's Bild newspaper.
"There is nothing more to say. Nothing has yet been decided."
Part of the negotiations are believed to revolve around the future of Belgian midfielder Kevin de Bruyne, who has caught Leverkusen's eye while on loan at Bundesliga rivals Werder Bremen this season.
He could join Leverkusen on loan as part of the deal and Voller is understood to be on his way to Brussels to speak with the player's agent today before a deal with Chelsea can go through.
Schurrle has been on the Blues' radar for a while, and he has said in the past we would be keen to join the west London club.
After Leverkusen rejected their bid for the 22-year-old last summer, the Germany international told Kicker magazine: "It would have been very interesting.
"Such an opportunity probably does not come around all that often."
Schurrle's contract with Leverkusen still has three years left to run on it and a fee similar to the 25 million Euros touted 12 months ago could still be Leverkusen's demands for the attacking midfielder, who has appeared 22 times for Germany, scoring seven goals.
Chelsea did not wish to comment on the reports when contacted by Press Association Sport.
PA
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments