Timo Werner’s departure from Chelsea and potential return to RB Leipzig this summer could be accelerated following his latest decision over his £250,000-a-week wages, according to reports.
Chelsea have been on the hunt for attackers this summer window but they look set to be facing another outgoing as German striker Werner is eyeing an exit.
Having signed in 2020 for a fee of £47.5 million under the management of Frank Lampard, the speedy forward has not hit the heights expected of him.
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In a total of 56 Premier League appearances he has netted just 10 times and provided 9 assists, a poor return given the outstanding numbers he put up in the Bundesliga.
In fact that could be where the 26-year-old is heading RB Leipzig are keen to get their old player back but there has also been reported interest from Newcastle United and Juventus as well.
Should the Blues let Werner go, the attacking options they have will be dwindling, leaving Kai Havertz, Michy Batshuayi and Armando Broja as the only recognised number nines in the senior squad.
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The addition of Raheem Sterling will provide a much needed boost up top and with his versatility he could play anywhere across the front three, but more signings need to be made.
Thomas Tuchel has been reported to want four more signings this transfer window to help rebuild his side.
He has also revealed his concerns over the lack of goal threat the Blues have, telling reporters after the 4-0 defeat to Arsenal: “If you look at the first half, it was even hard to escape our half in a productive way and to play in the opponent’s half in a positive way and create chances - we had one chance with a shot.”
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He added: “We will see hopefully development but at the moment, we have the same issues because we have the same players.”
Reports suggest that Werner’s relationship with Tuchel has deteriorated.
He recently publicly admitted he wants to ‘play more’ but his head coach responded by claiming the striker should be happy to have a contract at Chelsea.
The latest indication of the forward's departure is that, as per SPORT1 in Germany, he is claimed to be ready to take a pay cut to join Leipzig.
On £250,000-a-week at Stamford Bridge, if Tuchel is not planning to utilise him next season, it would open a big amount of money they can utilise elsewhere.
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It is likely that Werner would only be able to move to Leipzig on a loan deal, but there is still interest from other clubs.
The Blues could also be set to lose Hakim Ziyech from their attack force, with the club open to letting him leave for as little as £8.4 million - AC Milan are currently in talks for the 29-year-old.
Chelsea will need to make more moves in the window should they want multiple forward options for Tuchel to lean upon next season and ensure they are competitive.
Featured Image Credit: AlamyTopics: Timo Werner, Chelsea, Football, RB Leipzig, Chelsea Transfer News & Rumours, Transfers