To The Lane And Back
·9 January 2024
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Yahoo sportsTo The Lane And Back
·9 January 2024
Former Chelsea striker Timo Werner looks set to make a surprise move to Tottenham Hotspur this week.
The 27-year-old will join on an initial six-month loan deal, with Spurs having the option to make the move from RB Leipzig permanent for a fee worth £14 million this summer.
It’s fair to say that this move has raised a few eyebrows, particularly as Werner struggled during his last spell in England.
The German international managed 44 goal involvements in 89 appearances for Chelsea. But he only lasted two years at Stamford Bridge before rejoining Leipzig in 2022.
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Werner was often criticised for a lack of cutting-edge in front of goal, despite being a part of Chelsea’s Champions League-winning squad in 2021.
His proposed move to Spurs has certainly divided opinion among Tottenham fans, with some believing it to be ‘smart’ business while others feel the club have landed on the ‘cheap’ option once again.
But during a transfer window where it’s notoriously difficult to land top players, we believe this could be an astute move from Tottenham.
Ange Postecoglou was reportedly key in securing a deal for Werner this month, with the Aussie boss said to be keen on the signing.
Indeed, The Evening Standard has claimed just yesterday that despite interest from Manchester United, Werner was ‘won over’ by Postecoglou during a call with the Spurs boss.
It’s noted that the Aussie told Werner he could ‘revitalise’ his career in North London.
While Werner’s record in front of goal over the past three years leaves plenty to be desired, the fact that Postecoglou wanted him should offer Spurs fans some encouragement.
The Tottenham boss has been credited as a manager with a keen eye for talent and his recruitment at his previous clubs, as well as early additions at Spurs, proves that to be the case.
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Werner has netted just twice in 14 appearances for Leipzig this term, with the majority of his minutes coming from the bench. But with Heung-Min Son potentially at the Asian Cup until mid-February, this signing makes a lot of sense.
The German international is capable of playing off the left-hand side, as well as through the middle. His pace and tireless work rate make him a good fit for ‘Ange-ball’.
With Ivan Perisic and Manor Solomon sidelined, Spurs are lacking depth off the left-hand side in particular.
It’s certainly one of the more intriguing moves of the January window and there is every chance that Werner could struggle in the Premier League once again.
But we think he’s a good fit for Postecoglou’s demands and as a short-term option, he will provide quality depth across the frontline.