Published on 09.01.2024
Just a few years ago, Timo Werner was considered the emerging talent of German football.
Having scored an impressive 78 goals in 127 games for RB Leipzig, many expected him to make a significant impact in the Premier League after Chelsea’s hefty £47m purchase.
However, Tottenham has now reached an agreement with Leipzig that allows them to potentially secure his permanent signing for a mere £15m in the upcoming summer, based on his performance during the half-season loan spell. This considerable drop in valuation reflects the challenges Werner has faced over recent seasons. Despite being 27 years old and theoretically at his peak, he finds himself at a crucial point in his career where he must prove himself once again – not only to others but also to himself.
"He's got a lot to prove but also a lot to offer"
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) January 8, 2024
Can Ange Postecoglou get the best out of Timo Werner? ⚪ pic.twitter.com/GtI4DORMzB
Werner’s move to Chelsea brought him success on the European stage with their Champions League triumph. However, personally, it did not go as planned. Scoring only 10 goals out of an Expected Goals total of 18.54 across two seasons was disappointing and fell short of expectations. He missed several clear-cut chances and often found himself offside.
In August 2022, Werner returned to Leipzig hoping for a fresh start and renewed motivation. Unfortunately, an ankle injury just before the World Cup in Qatar dealt another significant blow to his aspirations. Consequently, this season he has managed just two Bundesliga goals and made only two starts from eight appearances for Leipzig thus far.
Werner is hoping for the best with his unexpected move to Tottenham. Can he regain the scoring abilities he showcased in his early years at Leipzig? According to Sky Germany reporter Philipp Hinze, who closely follows the German club, there is some optimism that Werner can reach that level again, but it won’t be a straightforward task.
