Chelsea have attempted to make checks on whether or not Red Bull Leipzig forward Timo Werner has a release clause that could be activated in January as they weigh up their options for the forthcoming transfer window.

Werner is one of a number of forwards and wingers, including Moussa Dembele, Jadon Sancho, Wilfried Zaha, Leon Bailey and Samuel Chukwueze, who Chelsea are considering.

Leipzig have made it clear that they will fight to keep Werner in January with the German club top of the Bundesliga table and looking forward to a Champions League last-16 clash against Tottenham Hotspur.

But there has been confusion over a supposed release clause in Werner’s contract that has been quoted as low as £25.6million and as high as £51.2m in recent months, which Chelsea have tried to clarify.

Germany international Werner has scored 23 goals in 24 games for Leipzig this season and can play out wide as well as through the middle, which would suit Chelsea.