New York Red Bulls Eye Champions League Hero as Transfer Talks Heat Up
MLS could be welcoming another marquee signing, as the New York Red Bulls appear to be pursuing former Chelsea and Tottenham striker Timo Werner.
Reports from The Athletic and Givemesport suggest that the New York Red Bulls are engaged in discussions with RB Leipzig regarding Werner's potential move to Major League Soccer. While no final deal has been struck, sources indicate that all parties involved are optimistic about completing the transfer before the summer window closes.
Werner has reportedly been on the Red Bulls' wishlist for several years, with the club allegedly having had the opportunity to sign him during the previous summer transfer period.
The previous campaign proved challenging for Werner. He spent a year and a half on loan at Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League. His performances declined significantly, leading to him being absent from competitive action since late February and missing out on Spurs' final five Premier League matchday squads of the campaign.
The German striker demonstrated considerable potential during his initial period at RB Leipzig between 2016 and 2020, which convinced Chelsea to invest €53 million ($59 million) to secure his services at Stamford Bridge in summer 2020. Throughout his two-year tenure with the Blues, he featured in and claimed victory in the 2021 UEFA Champions League final.
At 29 years of age, sources suggest Werner is enthusiastic about the prospect of joining MLS, where he would complement the Red Bulls' current roster alongside Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting and his former Leipzig colleague Emil Forsberg.
Sandro Schwarz's team presently has an open designated-player position on their squad, and given that Werner remains under 30, he still possesses significant quality to contribute, making this potential acquisition more realistic.
The New York Red Bulls came close to capturing their inaugural MLS Cup in 2024, suffering defeat in the championship match against eventual winners LA Galaxy. Should they successfully secure Werner's signature, they could be well-positioned to improve upon that achievement in 2025.