Manchester United are reportedly eyeing a surprise move for Timo Werner, the former Chelsea forward known for his blistering pace. Despite his rocky past in the Premier League, Erik ten Hag seems to be considering the German striker as a potential replacement for the often-injured Antony Martial. It’s a bold consideration, especially given Werner’s prior struggles in England’s top flight.
According to Sky Germany, United have already reached out to RB Leipzig, Werner’s current club, to express their interest. While no formal offer has been tabled, the Red Devils appear serious about strengthening their attacking options in the January transfer window. It seems the search for a fresh spark up front is well underway at Old Trafford.
Werner, who returned to Leipzig in 2022 after a challenging spell at Chelsea, has found himself frustrated by a lack of playing time. Despite netting 16 goals last season, his current campaign has been far from prolific, with only two goals to his name in eight Bundesliga appearances — and those over a mere 203 minutes of play.
At present, there are no negotiations in motion, but Werner’s name has been added to United’s shortlist. It’s a familiar story for the striker, who has also been linked with other clubs recently, including Real Madrid, Fulham, Crystal Palace, and West Ham. His name seems to keep resurfacing in transfer circles, a testament to his lingering potential despite past inconsistencies.
Werner’s time at Chelsea was, to put it kindly, underwhelming. Brought in with great expectations for a hefty £47.5 million, he managed just 10 goals in 56 Premier League appearances. Though he flashed moments of brilliance, particularly with his pace and pressing, he ultimately fell short of the standard expected at Stamford Bridge.
Nevertheless, he was part of a successful Chelsea squad that triumphed in the Champions League under Thomas Tuchel in 2021. That winning pedigree could be part of what intrigues United — a player who, despite his struggles, has experienced European glory and might bring a fresh dynamic to a team in transition.
When Werner returned to Leipzig for a significantly reduced fee of £25.3 million, it was seen as a reset for the 27-year-old — a chance to regain confidence in a familiar environment. But with limited minutes and a minor role this season, it’s no wonder he’s considering another move. And Manchester United, always on the lookout for untapped potential, might just be willing to gamble.
Whether Werner can reclaim his best form in England remains to be seen. His pace is undeniable, but questions about his finishing and adaptability still hang in the air. For United, it’s a risky proposition — but in a market short on options and long on desperation, risk might be the only card left to play.
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