Steve McManaman discusses Liverpool’s reported pursuit of Timo Werner

Add as preferred source on Google

Steve McManaman has told BT Sport’s Early Kick-Off (Episode 35) that he is unsure whether RB Leipzig striker Timo Werner is ready for a big move to a club like Liverpool, with the Reds strongly linked with the German ace.

Werner, 24, has been in stunning form for Leipzig again this season – starring under the guidance of Julian Nagelsmann. He has netted 27 goals in 36 games, as well as laying on 12 assists, despite being used out wide or up front.

Sky Sports claimed in April that Werner is ready to join Liverpool this summer if the Reds are willing to meet his £52million release clause by June 15. With just over a month left to activate that clause, it remains to be seen if Werner will join.

Liverpool icon McManaman discussed Werner and a potential move to Liverpool with the striker preparing to return to Bundesliga action this weekend, and he claimed that Werner is not ready to start – but would still be a good signing.

“There’s people like Werner who has been linked with a move to the Premier League and Liverpool, but I do not know if he is ready for that step up yet,” McManaman said. “He’s young, he’s quick, he’s got an eye for goal, he has played for his country.

TBR’s view – Is Werner good enough to lead the line for Liverpool?

Right now, Roberto Firmino is that man and the Brazilian is likely to remain in that role for at least the next couple of seasons. What makes Werner the ideal candidate is his ability to score from the left flank, playing in a similar role to Sadio Mane.

Probably Europe’s best front three, Mo Salah, Firmino and Mane are surely impenetrable even if Liverpool do sign Werner – who of course, is unproven in the Premier League and will certainly need time to adapt.

Certainly a good signing especially at his bargain release clause fee, but McManaman is right that he would not initially make an enormous impact.