Chelsea have had a second bid for Jamie Gittens rejected by Borussia Dortmund, as the German club continue to demand a higher fee ahead of Tuesday’s Club World Cup registration deadline.

The Blues are racing to finalise transfers in time for new signings to be eligible for the tournament. However, Dortmund are holding firm over their valuation of Gittens, the latest English talent to shine in the Bundesliga.

Chelsea's initial approach was turned down, and their second offer — reported to be €50 million (£42.8m) — has also been dismissed, according to the BBC. Dortmund are believed to be seeking an additional €5m (£4.2m) before sanctioning the move. Gittens has expressed his desire to join the Premier League side, and personal terms are not expected to be a stumbling block.

Chelsea, though, must meet Dortmund’s valuation if they wish to secure the winger before flying to the United States for the tournament, where Dortmund are also scheduled to feature.

It has been a frustrating period for the West London club, whose recruitment plans have faced multiple obstacles. Head coach Enzo Maresca is eager to strengthen his goalkeeping options, with AC Milan’s Mike Maignan among the top targets. The France international has only one year remaining on his current contract and is reportedly keen on a move to Stamford Bridge.

Despite Maignan’s interest, Chelsea are unwilling to meet Milan’s asking price of over £20 million. Their latest bid, around £12m, fell short, and unless the club are prepared to increase their offer, a deal looks unlikely in the short term. According to The Sun, Maignan has made it clear he wants the switch, but Chelsea’s stance has stalled progress.

The club’s uncertainty between the posts comes as none of their five senior goalkeepers have made the position their own — prompting a wider search for reinforcements.

In attack, Chelsea were also exploring a deal for Hugo Ekitike, currently at Eintracht Frankfurt. However, Sky Germany reports that negotiations have failed to yield a full agreement, and the club have now abandoned hopes of completing the signing in time for the Club World Cup. Liverpool, meanwhile, remain in the race for the French forward.

So far, Chelsea's only major summer acquisition has been Liam Delap, who joined from Ipswich Town for £30 million. Despite competition from Manchester United, Maresca secured the young striker’s signature. On Monday, the club also confirmed the signing of Mamadou Sarr from sister club Strasbourg.