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What's the story?
Barcelona are interested in bringing in RB Leipzig striker Timo Werner this January itself, according to a report in Spanish news outlet, El Mundo Deportivo. The Catalans have grown weary of Luis Suarez' form, with Ernesto Valverde authorizing technical director, Robert Fernandez to search for a striker. Paco Alcacer has only served to disappoint, and with Werner the right profile in terms of pedigree and style of play Barcelona are ready to test RB Leipzig's mettle with a concerted effort for the German in January itself, so as to keep their La Liga and UEFA Champions League hopes aflame.
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In case you didn't know...
A product of VfB Stuttgart's academy, Timo Werner was the Bundesliga's side youngest ever player to make his debut - at the age of 17 years. Primarily used as a winger, Werner's star had begun to fade, which saw RB Leipzig pay a mere €10 million for him last summer. With manager Ralph Hasenhuttl shifting Werner to a central position, the German youngster's career took off, being involved in 28 goals in 32 games for the club last season (21 goals, 7 assists).
Also Read: Scout Report, Timo Werner - Bundesliga's next big star
The heart of the matter
Timo Werner has a large number of Bundesliga records to his name - the youngest player to ever score a brace in the German league. He is also the youngest to reach milestones of 50 games and 100 games. With 21 goals last season, the 21-year-old was the highest scoring German in the Bundesliga last season.
Luis Suarez has found the net for Barcelona recently, but the report claims that concerns remain within the Barca camp over the Uruguayan's weight issues. Reports in Spanish radio claim that Messi has clashed with Ernesto Valverde over Suarez, asking for the #9 role to be awarded to him again.
However, the Barcelona boss has deemed it a better idea to bring in a proper striker, hoping to replicate David Villa's combination with Messi, with Timo Werner being the ideal candidate.
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Author's Take:
Timo Werner is very much the real deal. He's been in the news of late because of a mysterious condition that forced him out in the Champions League. However, Barcelona can be sure that a price of €45 million would represent excellent value for money for a striker with the world at his feet. Luis Suarez is approaching his decline and with Paco Alcacer not working out, Barcelona have to bring in another promising striker.
