Chelsea have GREEN LIGHT for Christian Pulisic transfer but Bayern Munich now want star

Pulisic has forged a reputation as one of the Bundesliga’s brightest prospects thanks to his performances at Borussia Dortmund.

And the fact Jadon Sancho has somewhat stolen his thunder this season has done nothing to quell interest in prising him away from Signal Iduna Park.

Liverpool are known to be long-standing admirers of Pulisic, thanks in part to the presence of former Borussia Dortmund boss Jurgen Klopp at Anfield.

Manchester United, meanwhile, have been touted as a potential destination for the USA international as they look to snap up another exciting prospect.

The latest reports from Pulisic’s homeland, though, indicate Chelsea have stolen a march on Liverpool and United in pursuit of his signature.

According to Sports Illustrated, Chelsea have indeed "emerged as the top contender in England for Pulisic".

The Blues have impressed in Maurizio Sarri’s first few months at the helm and currently sit third in the Premier League.

It appears owner Roman Abramovich is prepared to give the Italian funds in order to sustain a title challenge.

Dortmund chief Michael Zorc has insisted Pulisic will not be going anywhere during the January transfer window.

However, the amount of money Chelsea can offer Dortmund in the summer may be inconsequential.

FIFA are currently investigating Chelsea over claims they broke rules surrounding the signing of underage players.

And the west Londoners might be slapped with a transfer ban which would stop progress towards a deal for Pulisic in its tracks.

That might open the door for Liverpool or United to steal in and prevent Chelsea from ever getting hold of Pulisic.

Although their own hopes of snaring the 20-year-old could be ended by Bayern Munich.

Sports Illustrated claim a source close to Bayern chiefs has informed them the club have "significant interest" in buying Pulisic.

Bayern have history for targeting Dortmund players given their previous acquisitions of Robert Lewandowski, Mario Gotze and Mats Hummels.

And they are preparing for veteran wingers Franck Ribery and Arjen Robben calling time on their respective careers.

Bayern are also desperate to build a brand in the US - something signing Pennsylvania-born Pulisic would help them to achieve.

Pulisic has scored three goals and provided two assists in 12 appearances in all competitions this season.

And plenty of clubs will be keeping tabs on how he performs if he lines up against Mainz on Sunday.