According to a “Sky” report, a possible return of Timo Werner to RB Leipzig is becoming more and more concrete. The talks between the cup winners and Chelsea, where the national striker is currently under contract, would therefore be intensive. Chelsea coach Thomas Tuchel has so far stuck to his stance that he would like to keep Werner.
The “Leipziger Volkszeitung” had previously reported that Leipzig’s club boss Oliver Mintzlaff had been in contact with Werner for a long time, who no longer felt comfortable in London. RB is considering whether to borrow or buy the native of Stuttgart. So far, however, Leipzig have never spent more than 30 million euros on a player, and Werner would break the Leipzig salary structure considerably despite a possible waiver of part of his salary.
Werner enjoys almost cult status among the London fans, despite his mixed goalscoring rate and the many missed chances. Chelsea supporters appreciate the German striker’s unassuming manner and dry sense of humour.
Werner came to the Saxons from VfB Stuttgart in 2016 and scored 93 goals in 158 competitive games for RB. Four years later he moved to Chelsea for around 53 million euros. According to English media reports, Newcastle United and Juventus Turin are also said to be interested in Werner.
Despite the contract until 2025, Werner recently spoke openly about a possible departure from Chelsea. “I could be happy anywhere,” emphasized the attacker. “It’s clear I want to play more and I should play more to be in good shape for the World Cup.”
With a view to the upcoming World Cup in Qatar in November, Werner needs match practice and goals to secure a place in Hans-Dieter Flick’s squad. The national coach recently revealed what he expects from the striker. “It is important that he has match practice, that he has a good rate, has good playing time, then he has the rhythm and he needs that,” said Flick when asked about Werner’s situation in London. Flick said about a possible change: “He has to decide for himself,” explained Flick. “He’s still a Chelsea player, he has tremendous qualities. Timo needs support, he needs encouragement and backing.”
For Werner, a move to Leipzig would be a step back into a familiar environment. However, it is not certain whether the attacker would get a place in the starting XI right away. With Christopher Nkunku and André Silva, Leipzig have attacking strikers who are dangerous. The competition for Werner would also be great at his old place of work.
