Real Madrid have reportedly decided to walk away from negotiations for Chelsea forward Kai Havertz.
Los Blancos had initially been expecting continuity heading into next season, keeping names such as Karim Benzema at the centre of their plans for 2023-24.
However, at the same time as other high-profile departures from the Santiago Bernabeu, the legendary frontman opted to accept a deal from Saudi Arabian outfit Al-Ittihad.
Over the weekend, Real announced that they have moved to fill one of their creative voids by formally revealing that Brahim Diaz would be a part of their first-team squad next season after his productive loan stint with AC Milan.
Nevertheless, the La Liga giants remain in a position where they require further reinforcements, it being alleged that Havertz is one of their preferred candidates.
© Reuters
Rather than the Germany international being identified as a direct replacement for Benzema, manager Carlo Ancelotti is said to be a fan of his overall versatility in the final third.
That said, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano on Twitter, the Spanish outfit have signalled their intention to end discussions with their Chelsea counterparts.
Since transfer rumours began to intensify upon the conclusion of the domestic season, it has become clear that Chelsea's hierarchy are taking a hardball stance with some of their players.
Romano suggests that Havertz is among those squad members, the West Londoners continuing to insist on receiving at least €60m (£51.6m) plus add-ons to give the green light to a sale.
© Reuters
Recently, it was claimed that Real were not prepared to pay over €50m (£43.03m), despite their allegedly being an admiration of the 24-year-old.
Talks are now said to have been brought to a conclusion, Real not prepared to return unless Chelsea are willing to soften their stance over a player who has just over two years left on his contract.
Furthermore, Havertz is coming off the back of a poor campaign, contributing just nine goals from his 47 appearances in all competitions.
Last week, Arsenal were also credited with an interest in the former Bayer Leverkusen star, yet they allegedly have the same view as Real over the size of a transfer fee.
Darren Plant
