Liverpool switch attention to Werner as Brandt interests Bayern
Liverpool are reportedly looking elsewhere for attacking targets after hearing of Bayern’s interest in Julian Brandt and have made RB Leipzig’s Timo Werner a priority target, according to the Mail Online.
Jurgen Klopp is believed to be preparing for a busy summer in the transfer window amidst concerns over the lack of depth in his ranks. The former Borussia Dortmund boss has inevitably been linked to a number of Bundesliga players and it appears as though Werner is in his sights.
The youngster only joined RB Leipzig last year but has made quite the impact following a move from VfB Stuttgart, taking on the mantle as the Champions League hopefuls’ main goalscoring threat. Werner has 14 Bundesliga goals to his name this season to rank fourth in Germany’s top tier and first of all players aged 21 or under in Europe’s top 5 leagues.
While Werner can play wide, he has featured as a centre-forward for Bayern’s closest Bundesliga rivals this season, so Liverpool are still likely to be on the lookout for alternatives to Bayer Leverkusen’s Julian Brandt beyond the 21-year old.
Indeed, Brandt’s versatility would have been a huge boost to the Reds, who may not give up on a deal for the 20-year old just yet but would surely be second favourites should Bayern’s apparent approach for the youngster be legitimate. While the Germany international doesn’t carry the same goal threat as Werner, scoring just twice in the league this season, his creativity in the final third has unsurprisingly drawn admirers.
Brandt has six assists to his name in the Bundesliga this season, while only Borussia Dortmund winger Ousmane Dembele has created more clear cut chances (9). While Liverpool’s first port of call in terms of strengthening in the summer should certainly be to bolster the defence, Klopp’s desire for options in attack are understandable.
Daniel Sturridge’s future at Anfield certainly looks bleak, while Divock Origi has never really convinced of his credentials to lead the line for the Reds. Werner, then, would likely be signed to put a little pressure on Roberto Firmino’s place in the side, with the added bonus that he can play on the left flank - where the Reds are perhaps a little short - making Liverpool’s interest all the more concrete.
