Timo Werner on verge of sealing permanent Chelsea exit as RB Leipzig transfer nears

Chelsea forward Timo Werner is on the verge of joining RB Leipzig on a permanent deal, according to reports.

The German was not part of the Chelsea matchday squad to face Everton on Saturday, with the Blues coming out 1-0 victors at Goodison Park.

After suffering an injury in the Blues’ pre-season camp as they went on tour in the United States, his game time was limited as they prepared for the 2022/23 season. 

Werner admitted last month that he could be happier away from Chelsea as he is now closing in on a move away from the Blues.

Chelsea forward Timo Werner (11) during the game between Chelsea and Arsenal on July 23, 2022 at Camping World Stadium in Orlando. (Alamy)

However, despite Werner’s honest stance on his future, head coach Thomas Tuchel hadn’t been informed by him of his desire to leave.

Speaking on the forward, Tuchel said: “I’m surprised, I would be very happy as a young guy having a contract at Chelsea Football Club. I would be one of the happiest people on the planet.

“Show quality, take your place and defend your place. I would be one of the happiest people on the planet having a contract with Chelsea. If he said this, I do not understand.”

Following these comments, Werner has been heavily linked with a return to RB Leipzig as well as a move to Juventus, or Newcastle United.

Reports in Germany have now revealed that a return to his former clubs is about to be finalised.

According to Florian Plettenberg, Werner is ‘on the verge’ of completing his move back to the Bundesliga side.

There has been positive developments in the last few days, with Werner having the desire to return to his former side, with it now being close to completion.

The total agreement over the move is expected to be finalised in the next week, with Werner about to put an end to his fairly unsuccessful goalscoring record since joining the Premier League.

Chelsea forward Timo Werner (11) during the game between Chelsea and Arsenal on July 23, 2022 at Camping World Stadium. (Alamy)

Fabrizio Romano confirmed that the deal will be a permanent one, with the fee yet to be revealed.

During his time at Chelsea, Werner lifted the UEFA Champions League and Super Cup, as well as the Club World Cup.

Chelsea will most likely look to sign a replacement, with Callum Hudson-Odou also linked with an exit this summer.

The Cobham graduate has asked to leave on loan in order for first team football as Leicester City and Southampton are interested.

It remains to be seen as to whether this will be granted as Werner now looks set for a certain departure.