Transfer Centre

How Liverpool could line up with Timo Werner

By Darren Plant, Senior Reporter | 25 February 2020

With Timo Werner being linked with a summer move to Liverpool, Sports Mole predicts where the German could feature in Jurgen Klopp's plans.

Having scored 27 goals for RB Leipzig in all competitions this season, it appears inevitable that Timo Werner will make the move to a bigger club during the summer transfer window.

Reports have maintained that the 23-year-old possesses a release clause in his contract, ranging anywhere between £25m and £51m.

However, regardless of the fee, Liverpool are seen as the frontrunners for the Germany international, who has acknowledged that he is "proud" to have been linked with the European champions.

While other clubs remain in the running for the versatile attacker, Werner appears to be the perfect fit for Liverpool and manager Jurgen Klopp.

With that in mind, Sports Mole predicts how the Merseyside giants could line up if they are able to push through a deal for the player later in 2020.

As it stands, Liverpool's front three is set in stone, with Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane playing either side of Roberto Firmino in the final third.

Although the high-profile addition of Werner would not necessarily lead to Klopp throwing the new arrival straight into the team, that would naturally be in his long-term vision.

Providing that the star trio stay at Anfield during the summer window, the most likely scenario is Firmino dropping into a deeper position to allow Werner to spearhead the attack.

Much will depend on the level and tactics of the opposition, but Klopp is unlikely to have reservations when it comes to using four attackers during home fixtures.

The consequence of such a change in strategy would be Fabinho and Jordan Henderson being provided with less licence to push forward, especially in the case of the latter who has made a significant impact in attacking positions this season.

Despite the reliable Georginio Wijnaldum being expected to miss out when it comes to Klopp picking his strongest XI, the Dutchman would get regular opportunities given Liverpool's heavy workload.

If Klopp opted to retain Wijnaldum in a three-man midfield, Werner would likely have to make do with a spot on the substitutes' bench, taking on an impact role similar to that of Divock Origi.