Lothar Matthaus has raised the question if reported Newcastle United transfer target Timo Werner belongs at Chelsea given his lack of frequent minutes, via his column Sky Germany.
The forward is coming to the end of his second season at Stamford Bridge but is still yet to establish himself in west London. Frank Lampard sought to refresh the Blues’ attack in the summer 2020 market with the German, so triggered his £45m release clause at RB Leipzig.
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Yet the 26-year-old finds himself behind compatriot Kai Havertz in Thomas Tuchel’s striker pecking order now. The midfielder has forced his way to the front to play as a false nine in recent weeks, while also forcing Werner to play an attacking midfield role or on the wing.
Werner has given Tuchel little reason to favour him through the centre, having only scored one Premier League goal this season. He has also only offered an assist in his 14 games, of which he has started just eight. His most recent goal involvement also came on October 2.
His plight at the Bridge put members of the St James’ Park hierarchy on alert ahead of the mid-season sales. Christian Falk noted Newcastle were interested in a transfer for Werner, while adding the Magpies believed they could prise the striker away from Chelsea, as well.
Werner’s west London future remains a topic of speculation ahead of the summer window opening. Sky Germany now report Borussia Dortmund are considering a swoop as they like his profile. The Westfalenstadion side also has good relations with his agent, Volker Struth.
Lothar Matthaus questions does Newcastle target Timo Werner ‘belong’ at Chelsea
Chelsea are not desperate to cut their losses, just yet, but will listen to all bids for Werner. They have also set his asking price at €40m (£34m), but BVB cannot afford the fee. Instead, the Bundesliga outfit are aiming to offer €30m (£25.5m), before additional future add-ons.
Matthaus would welcome Werner returning to Germany if Chelsea sanction a transfer for the Newcastle target. As while he admires the forward and likes his character, the German legend questions if Werner is the right sort of player for the Blues and head coach Tuchel.
“Does Timo Werner belong there?” Matthaus ponders. “I like him a lot as a player. Even if he has long dry spells at his club or is rarely used, you never hear him grumble, complain or otherwise lament.
“He always puts himself at the service of the team, creates gaps, runs a lot and then rewards himself with a goal every now and then, especially in the national team. His big plus is, of course, is speed. You saw that not least in his goal against Israel.
“The question arises whether he might have to leave Chelsea to gain more match practice. Only he can decide that. I would be happy if we see him again in the Bundesliga. Like I said, I’m a fan of his style of play.”
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