Borussia Dortmund chief Hans-Joachim Watzk seems to have aimed a dig at Chelsea and Newcastle United target Youssoufa Moukoko. The 18-year-old has been heavily linked with an exit from the Bundesliga outfit as he enters the final six-month of his deal.
According to the Evening Standard, the Magpies have made a 'substantial verbal approach' for the striker, leapfrogging the Blues. The report states that Moukoko is thought to have discussed a deal worth over £ 150,000 a week to join Eddie Howe's side on a free transfer once his deal at the Signal Iduna Park expires at the end of the season.
It's said Chelsea and Barcelona are among several clubs interested in the Germany international. The report adds that Dortmund are actively looking to extend Moukoko's future but they're believed to be struggling to compete financially in the race for his signature.
READ MORE: Chelsea alerted by Dortmund in Youssoufa Moukoko transfer after Newcastle hijack 'ultimate' deal
With growing speculation over the wonderkid's future, Dortmund chief Watzk commented on the lack of 'gratitude' in football. Speaking to Sky Sport Germany, he said: "I started 18 years ago with the proviso that there might be a little gratitude from time to time, but I’ve given up on that a long time ago.
"Gratitude is not a currency in professional football. Sadly, that really is the case. But I won’t hold that against anyone, because the business is simply the way it is.
"I don’t think the whole process is very normal. The difference is that he’s 18 years old now and he was at the World Cup and that makes it even more public.
"It’s totally legitimate that he is now trying to get a good position for himself. But it is also legitimate that we have our own ideas.
"If they do not coincide then the cooperation will not be continued. That is the ultimate consequence – but of course, we hope that he will stay with us."
Chelsea appear to still be in the market for a striker despite having already welcomed David Datro Fofana and Joao Felix to the club this month. Graham Potter has endured a turbulent start to life at Stamford Bridge but the 47-year-old will be hoping that new signings - like Moukoko - can help transform his ideas onto the pitch.
So, the £26.2million-rated youngster has been identified as a candidate who can solve the Blues' goalscoring woes. The German has impressed for club and country this season - particularly in the World Cup at such a tender age.
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