Club legend Michael Ballack has urged Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Kai Havertz to bide his time before moving to a bigger club.

Having emerged as the German outfit's key man at the age of 20, Havertz has been strongly linked with a switch to the likes of Liverpool and Manchester United.

However, Ballack, who did not move on to Bayern Munich until he was 25, wants the playmaker to spend more time at the BayArena.

Speaking to Bild, the German legend said: "Players with his quality are in demand everywhere. But I think he's in good hands in Leverkusen. The conditions there are perfect for young top players and their development. Bayer play attractive football and their training facilities are very good.

"Leverkusen also offer a cautious environment, and as a player you can make mistakes without being the focus of criticism. You should appreciate that.

"Of course a player like Kai Havertz has to play in the Champions League, so it would be important for Leverkusen to qualify for it."

Ahead of the restart of the Bundesliga, Havertz has contributed six goals and five assists this season.