Tottenham secures Timo Werner on loan from Red Bull Leipzig, banking on his goal-scoring prowess for a potential €17 million buy. (Getty Images)
Tottenham is making moves in the winter transfer window, securing German international Timo Werner on loan from Red Bull Leipzig with a potential buy option for €17 million. Manager Ange Postecoglou aims to leverage Werner's Premier League experience, banking on his knack for goal-scoring despite recent struggles.
While the addition of Werner seems prudent, his performance in the past two seasons with Chelsea, scoring 10 goals and assisting nine, followed by a limited role at RB Leipzig this season with just two goals in eight matches, raises uncertainties. Nevertheless, the loan agreement reduces the initial risk for Spurs.
The success of this move hinges on Werner rediscovering his goal-scoring form. If he prospers, Tottenham could secure the 27-year-old long-term. Otherwise, he returns to Germany, providing Spurs an opportunity to seek alternatives during summer. This loan arrangement is strategically timed, offering cover during international tournaments and motivating Werner to perform well for a spot in Euro 2024 with Germany.
With key players like Heung-min Son and Alejo Veliz absent due to injuries or tournaments, Werner's versatility as a forward or winger becomes crucial for Spurs. His potential role covering Son's left-wing position during Son's absence could influence his future usage upon Son's return.
The team's dynamics favor utilizing Son centrally, where his goal-scoring has excelled this season, netting nine goals and assisting two. However, Werner's arrival doesn't specifically address the finishing issues within the front three. Yet, maintaining Son in a central role aligns with Postecoglou's strategy to challenge for a top-four spot.
Postecoglou's attacking style emphasizes spacing and rapid passing, providing an avenue for Werner's strengths. While Werner's struggle to convert chances is evident, he possesses the ability to set up goals, as highlighted by his nine assists despite an expected assist total of 4.18 during the last three seasons.
Coaching intervention may be pivotal to balance Werner's inclination for shooting with his passing ability. Tottenham's high shot volume this season (third most in the Premier League with 320 shots) suggests enough opportunities for the attackers, potentially accommodating Werner's playing style within the team.
