Chelsea have reportedly pressed Borussia Dortmund for the sale of Christian Pulisic, but their initial bid has been rejected and the winger prefers a switch to Liverpool.

Pulisic, 20, remains a coveted figure across Europe despite dropping out of the Bundesliga leaders’ XI this season.

The Evening Standard has stated that the Blues made an offer below the £70 million asking price last Friday, that was spurned. This valuation remains in place, even though the United States international only has 18 months left on his deal.

Chelsea are determined to bring him to Stamford Bridge this winter. But their pursuit is further troubled by Pulisic’s desire to be reunited with ex-BVB boss Jurgen Klopp at Anfield.

One thing in their favour, however, is Dortmund’s will to bring in Thorgen Hazard as replacement. The Belgium wide man’s move to Borussia Monchengladbach from Chelsea contained an option to match any rival bid, giving them a potential bargaining chip.