Timo Werner looks poised to join Frank Lampard’s Chelsea revolution this summer. The 24-year-old German forward has reportedly told RB Leipzig he will not participate in this summers rearranged UEFA Champions League later stages.
The tournament looks set to get back underway in August. There is the possibility of a restructured conclusion, including one-legged quarter-finals and one venue being used. However, Werner, it seems, will miss the remainder of the campaign, in order to prepare for his upcoming move.
After being linked with a switch to league leaders Liverpool and German giants Bayern Munich, it seemed a last-minute change meant Werner was headed for the capital. With 31 goals in all competitions this season, the striker has been hot property for some time. Especially given his relatively small release clause; around £53 million.
What this means for RB Leipzig
This decision will come as a huge blow to Julian Nagelsmann’s squad. The RB Leipzig boss would have been relishing the opportunity of going the distance in the competition. Surely redemption is on their mind after being knocked out by last season’s runners-up, Tottenham.
Reports suggest Nagelsmann is planning to go into the final rounds of the competition with his top goalscorer. That said, Werner seems set on missing out.
Timo Werner has been integral in getting Leipzig this far. Should his team go on to make the final he may regret his decision to make himself unavailable.
UEFA has announced that the final stages of this year’s Champions League will be held in Lisbon, between the 12-23 of August.
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