In August 2022, Werner, age 27, made his return to RB Leipzig following two challenging seasons in the Premier League, where he managed to accumulate a mere 10 goals in the top division. United are rumored to be interested in bringing the German forward back to England when the January transfer window opens, notwithstanding his struggles. He could become Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s first acquisition.
Ratcliffe, a former Chelsea season ticket holder and British tycoon, is nearing completion of a £1.3 billion agreement to acquire a 25 percent stake in Manchester United. This acquisition will grant control of the club’s football operations to his petrochemicals company, INEOS. Although Werner’s start would be questionable, improving the Red Devils’ recruitment both on and off the field is one of their primary objectives.
After failing to meet expectations at Stamford Bridge subsequent to his transfer in 2020, he was returned to East Germany, an area where he has yet to reignite his professional trajectory. The 27-year-old has not participated in a complete 90 minutes of competitive football since May and has been demoted from the German national team. However, according to Sky Sports, United have reportedly already inquired about his availability.
Werner, who prefers to remain with Leipzig until the summer, is dissatisfied with his diminishing role under manager Marc Rose, according to the report. On Sunday, the 57-time senior international did not even come on for one minute in their 3-1 victory over Freiburg.
United are seeking an additional forward to assist £72 million acquisition Rasmus Hojlund, whose 20-year-old debut at Old Trafford as the starting striker has been rocky. Manager Erik ten Hag cannot rely on Anthony Martial as a reserve due to his unreliable fitness record, whereas Marcus Rashford has expressed a preference for playing on the left wing.
Although Werner is capable of performing as a wide forward, he prefers to be utilized as one of two strikers, providing Ten Hag with a tactical advantage. If he were to join the Red Devils, he would be reunited with Mason Mount, a former Chelsea teammate who is currently ailing. It is uncertain whether United would favor a permanent transfer or a loan, but given their history of signings in January, the latter seems more probable.
Ten Hag loaned striker Wout Weghorst and midfielder Marcel Sabitzer until the conclusion of the 2018 season. In 2020, Odion Ighalo was loaned by former manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. Their respective arrivals at Old Trafford elicited curiosity, and Werner’s would no exception.
