Chelsea starlet Hudson-Odoi at centre of transfer wrangle between Bayern and Dortmund as he prepares for England debut
Borussia Dortmund have joined Bayern Munich in the race to nab Chelsea's teenage winger
CALLUM HUDSON-ODOI is at the centre of a tug-of-war between the giants of Germany and Chelsea ahead of his England debut.
The Chelsea winger is now wanted by Bayern Munich AND Borussia Dortmund, while the Blues remain desperate to keep their young star.
Hudson-Odoi, 18, has been handed his first senior call-up by Three Lions boss Gareth Southgate.
He hopes to play some part in England’s Euro 2020 qualifying opener against the Czech Republic tomorrow or in Montenegro on Monday.
German champions Bayern were keen for the youngster to sign in January — Chelsea turned down a £35million offer — but are certain to make another attempt this summer.
Hudson-Odoi has been called up despite not making a Premier League start for Chelsea.
But Dortmund are now ready to increase their interest as they fear losing Jadon Sancho in the summer for a mind-boggling £100m to Manchester United.
In a complicated situation, Chelsea are facing a transfer ban for allegedly breaching Fifa regulations on signing minors.
And that means they will fight all the way to keep Hudson-Odoi, even though he seems keen on a move to get more playing time.
Dortmund and Bayern’s interest in Hudson-Odoi is the latest proof that English players are in demand in Germany.
Olivier Giroud could also quit Chelsea to get more game time.
Of course it’s frustrating. I know I will only play the Europa League.”
Olivier Giroud
The French World Cup-winner, 32, has admitted his frustration at playing second fiddle to Gonzalo Higuain and even Eden Hazard in the battle for the striker’s spot.
Now he says he may head home when his contract expires at the end of this season.
Giroud said: “The future may be hectic this summer. I’m not afraid to go down a level to have more playing time. It could be an end of my career in France.
“Of course it’s frustrating. I know I will only play the Europa League.
“I try to do what it takes to be the most efficient and important player for the team.”
Willian is more positive about his future at Stamford Bridge though as he eyes a new deal.
The Brazilian will come up against Chelsea’s policy of only giving one-year contracts to players aged over 30.
But he said: “I don’t know if they want me, but of course I want to continue here.”
