Thomas Tuchel has now vetoed Timo Werner leaving Chelsea during the final weeks of the summer transfer market amid interest from Newcastle United and RB Leipzig in the striker.
That’s according to Kicker, who report Tuchel will block Werner leaving Stamford Bridge as he is loath to weaken his attacking options. RB Leipzig and an array of potential suitors had contacted the Blues to discuss a possible move as the German was considering his future.
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Werner is unsure if he has a future in west London after Tuchel spent £47.5m for Raheem Sterling to join from Manchester City. The England international’s arrival concerns Werner as he fears it will impact his game time during the lead up to the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
Romelu Lukaku has left Stamford Bridge this summer and returned to Inter Milan on loan a year after joining Chelsea. Yet Werner is unconvinced that the Belgian star’s switch back to Serie A will see his minutes increase, with Tuchel likely looking for further forward options.
Werner concerned over Chelsea role amid Newcastle transfer interest
Tuchel only afforded Werner starting roles in 15 of his 21 Premier League appearances last season. The 26-year-old also only scored four and created one goal in his top-flight outings that totalled 1,285 minutes. Yet Werner hit home four goals in five Champions League ties.
European action was still thin and far between last season with Werner only opening three UEFA fixtures. He also only played 245 minutes, but found the back of the net once against Juventus, twice against Zenit St Petersburg and once at Real Madrid, along with one assist.
Now, Werner could face another fight to force his way onto the Stamford Bridge pitch with Tuchel vetoing his sale. Kicker’s update will likely serve as a blow for Newcastle, as well as RB Leipzig, as The Telegraph note boss Eddie Howe is keeping a close eye on his situation.
But while Newcastle are interested in a deal for Werner, the Toon would ask that Chelsea pay a majority of his salary. The Magpies would also favour a loan transfer for the 53-cap forward, who receives £270k-a-week and cost £45m when joining from RB Leipzig in 2020.
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