Newcastle United are reportedly now eyeing up a move to sign Chelsea striker Timo Werner.
The Lowdown: Interest there
The St. James’ Park outfit’s interest in Werner was first reported earlier this week, as Eddie Howe looks to strengthen his forward line having signed defenders Sven Botman and Matt Targett and goalkeeper Nick Pope.
It is not clear whether they will act on their interest in the Germany international, but it could be a deal to watch as the window progresses.
The Latest: Douglas insight
Writing in his latest piece for iNews, journalist Mark Douglas has revealed that the North East club are now monitoring Werner’s situation at Chelsea, with his future at Stamford Bridge thought to be uncertain.
Juventus and RB Leipzig are also interested in signing the 26-year-old, and the Blues are undecided whether they would be willing to let him go on a permanent deal or just on loan.
The Tynesiders would prefer a loan deal with an option to make it permanent, as they intend on being ‘box clever’ for the rest of the window.
The Verdict: Loan him in
Signing Werner on loan presents less risk for the Magpies compared to a permanent deal.
Nicknamed ‘Turbo Timo‘ for his electrifying speed, the striker has simply not shown it enough in the Premier League, having scored just 23 goals in 89 matches in total over all competitions for Thomas Tuchel’s team (Transfermarkt).
He is also earning a whopping £268,000-per-week, which would likely be discounted if the Toon manage to sign him on loan.
Nonetheless, they will be hoping that they can resurrect the kind of form that he showed at Leipzig before signing for Chelsea, and so a loan move would certainly suit NUFC in this instance.