Chelsea Football Club have contacted Borussia Dortmund over a possible deal for star defender Mats Hummels, according to German news outlet Bild.

The Premier League champions were able to contact Hummels through an intermediary. The German does not have an agent and discusses all personal business with his father, Hermann.

Hummels is now faced with a huge decision. His contract with Dortmund expires in 2017, and he must decide whether he wants to extend his time at the club or make the leap abroad.

Hummels, after spending his youth career with Bayern Munich, joined Dortmund on loan in 2008 and permanently in 2009. He has made 290 appearances for the club since making his debut.

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The defender has been courted by a host of Europe’s top clubs over the past few years. In England’s top-flight, Manchester United and Liverpool have kept Hummels on their radar.

However, Chelsea have reportedly jumped into the race for the German, and the Londoner’s desire to sign him burns brighter than ever.

With the departure of captain John Terry seemingly on the horizon, the Blues are looking for a successor to the Englishman, and that successor might be Hummels. It is apparent that a deal for the 27-year-old would be valued in excess of €35 million.