Chelsea among 3 Premier League clubs in contact with Bundesliga star wanted by Real Madrid and Barcelona: Reports

Chelsea are reportedly likely to face competition from three Premier League clubs, Real Madrid, and Barcelona in the race to rope in Bayer Leverkusen star Jonathan Tah.

Tah, 28, has cemented himself as one of the best no-nonsense centre-backs in the world of late. He helped his club win a domestic double last campaign owing to his fine leadership skills and defensive prowess.

Now, according to The Boot Room, Tah is hoping to secure a switch to the Premier League in the summer of 2025 after the expiration of his Leverkusen contract. The German, as a result, has attracted attention from Chelsea, Manchester United, and Tottenham Hotspur of late.

Chelsea, who have Wesley Fofana and Levi Colwill as their starters, are also likely to face competition from Aston Villa and Newcastle United in the future. Moreover, Real Madrid, Barcelona, Bayern Munich, Juventus, and Inter Milan are also aiming to sign the ex-Hamburg star.

Tah, who joined Leverkusen from Hamburg in 2015, has also drawn interest from a number of Saudi Pro League clubs ahead of the next summer. However, he is said to be uninterested in moving away from Europe.

So far, Tah has made 370 appearances across all competitions for Leverkusen. He has found the back of the net 15 times, including seven since the start of last term, and contributed 12 assists for his current club.

Former Chelsea striker says Real Madrid and Barcelona are Champions League favourites

Speaking recently to online bookmaker Boyle Sports, ex-Chelsea star Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink named his four favourites to win the UEFA Champions League trophy this season. He said (h/t Metro):

"As well as Manchester City and Real Madrid, I'd put Arsenal and Barcelona in my four favourites to win the Champions League this season. I might've said Bayern Munich but I didn't like how they played. I think it will be one of those four who lift the trophy. I really think Arsenal will go far [in the competition]."

Right now, Liverpool are atop the Champions League league phase standings with 12 points from four matches. Barcelona are sixth with nine points so far, while Real Madrid are in 18th place with a mere six points.

On the other hand, Manchester City are 10th in the European table with just seven points. Arsenal are in 12th spot, also boasting seven points.

The Champions League will next return on Tuesday (November 26).