According to a report from the Telegraph, Premier League rivals Chelsea are plotting a swoop for long-time Liverpool target Timo Werner and are ‘ready‘ to make an offer if the Reds don’t finalise a move – potentially dealing a blow in the form of competition for his signature.
Werner, who has impressed fans and pundits alike this season, scoring a noteworthy 25 goals in just 28 Bundesliga starts, is arguably one of RB Leipzig’s star men – helping the German side climb to third in the table in a bid to retain their Champions League status for next season.
Are Chelsea a threat to Liverpool's Werner bid?
Yes
Absolutely not
His performances have attracted worthy suitors, the most interested among them being Liverpool, who have already held video calls with the player and reportedly scheduled meetings for negotiation, at least according to past reports.
This could indicate he has long been on Michael Edwards’ radar, but the Telegraph claim we are not the only interested party – with Chelsea keeping a keen eye on developments and reportedly ‘ready‘ to make a bid of their own if we continue to drag our feet.
Both clubs may be ‘willing‘ to hold off on an official bid for now, though, as the 24-year-old’s release clause may drop to just £36 million in 12 months – almost £20m cheaper than his current £53m fee.
Leipzig have also ‘virtually admitted‘ defeat on keeping him at the Red Bull Arena, with a past report from Sky Sports suggesting Werner favours a move to Merseyside above all others.
Manager Jurgen Klopp appears keen to add Werner, but only time will tell whether we beat Chelsea to his signature.