Transfer Centre

Timo Werner to Chelsea: Antonio Rudiger 'played key role in deal'

By Barney Corkhill, Editor | 05 June 2020

Timo Werner's international teammate Antonio Rudiger reportedly played a key role in convincing the RB Leipzig striker to join Chelsea ahead of Liverpool or Man United.

Chelsea defender Antonio Rudiger reportedly played a key role in the proposed deal to take RB Leipzig striker Timo Werner to Stamford Bridge.

Reports on Thursday revealed that Werner is on the brink of becoming Chelsea's second signing of the summer after the Blues triggered his £53.8m release clause and agreed a five-year contract with the 24-year-old.

Frank Lampard's side have seemingly beaten Premier League rivals Liverpool and Manchester United to the Germany international's signature, and Bild reports that his compatriot Rudiger helped to convince him to move to West London.

Rudiger and Werner play with each other at international level and also know each other from their time together at Stuttgart.

The Chelsea defender reportedly talked up the quality of life at the club, while the promise of more regular first-team football also helped convince Werner to choose the Blues rather than waiting for Liverpool to make their move.

Werner has scored 31 goals and created 12 more in just 40 appearances across all competitions this season.