Bayer Leverkusen star Kai Havertz is close to completing his Chelsea transfer after he was allowed to leave the Germany camp for London.
Havertz’s move would be a new club record transfer for the Blues, with Chelsea expected to pay an initial £72m.
Germany national team director Oliver Bierhoff believes Havertz’s imminent £90million move to Chelsea is an “honour” for Germany.
Bierhoff said, according to Standard Sport: “The future belongs to Kai – in the club and in the national team.
“Of course we would have preferred if he could have fully concentrated on the national team at the start of the new international season.
“But we are aware of the importance for Bayer 04 Leverkusen and Kai and want to deal with it responsibly.
“At the same time, it is an honour and recognition for German football when young German players are in demand at top international clubs.
“From the experience these players have in collecting abroad – both in terms of sport and personal development – can also benefit the national team. “We were in constant contact with Rudi Völler in order to find a good solution together.”