Timo Werner, the former Chelsea player who failed to impress in his career could move on again as early as January.
In the summer 2022, the German international returned to his former club RB Leipzig but was not well received by the Bundesliga team.
The 27-year old is now looking to revive his career and has suggested a January move.
We examine Werner’s current situation and his future options, now that he is not included in the German squad to play Turkey and Austria.
Leipzig return
Werner started only four matches for RB Leipzig in this season, and two of them were Bundesliga games.
He has played in 13 games, including substitute appearances. But he only scored two goals and had one assist.
Werner played in 40 matches, 35 of them as a starter.
This forward scored 16 goals with six assists. It was an impressive start.
He has been forced to limit his minutes due to fierce competition with Lois Openda and Yussuf Poullsen.
It would make sense for Leipzig to fight hard for selection, as they are currently fourth in Bundesliga and have already qualified for the Champions League’s last 16.
Werner’s international dreams may be hampered by the fact that he must play regular football to earn a spot in Julian Nagelsmann’s Germany team for Euro 2024.
Door open
Recent comments by Leipzig Director Rouven Schroder on the current situation seem to be opening the door to Werner leaving the club.
Schroder stated: “We carefully look at our squad and want players with that bit of something different in their head.
We will select players of that type. Timo has been going through some difficult times, and we support him. It’s not always sunshine in life.
If he wants to change his mind, we’ll deal with that.
He is part of our squad and has to compete for a place.
Schroder’s remarks suggest Werner has some confidence issues, but this is not surprising after his turbulent time at Chelsea.
Blues paid 47.5 million PS after he had scored 34 goals for Leipzig during the season 2019-20.
Werner only scored 23 goals in 89 Chelsea appearances, as his confidence dwindled at Stamford Bridge.
Valued asset
Werner returned to Leipzig in August 2022 for a fee of PS25.3m.
The Bundesliga club has little incentive to offer him a bargain price, as his contract is not set to expire before 2026.
With Euro 2024 looming, Leipzig could be tempted to loan the player out in January. This would increase his potential value at a future summer transfer.
Newcastle and Juventus both wanted to sign Werner when he left Chelsea. However, he chose to go back to his native country.
Even though the 5ft11in attacking midfielder has had a difficult time over recent years, he will still attract many suitors.
He is a very valuable worker, despite his questionable finishing skills.
If Werner wants to go to the Euros, then something must change.
