Bayer Leverkusen give up on Kevin de Bruyne signing

Bayer Leverkusen have admitted defeat in the race to sign Chelsea midfielder Kevin de Bruyne with the news that the player features in Jose Mourinho's plans for next season.

The Belgian international enjoyed a success one-year loan spell at Werder Bremen last term, and Leverkusen were keen on using him as part of the deal that is likely to take Andre Schurrle to Stamford Bridge.

However, squad manager Michael Reschke conceded that the club will not be able to prise De Bruyne away from London.

"Chelsea and Jose Mourinho have made it clear during a meeting that Kevin will return to Chelsea next season," Reschke told The Express.

"Chelsea do not want to send the player on another loan to any club. The thing is over, sadly. We were not able to link it with an Andre Schurrle transfer."

De Bruyne has 12 international caps.