Werner’s situation is quite straightforward. The Athletic understands that his wish is to either join Liverpool or stay at Leipzig for a further 12 months and revisit the matter in 2021.
The 24-year-old’s contract runs until 2023 and features a release clause that changes throughout. Sources disclose that in the upcoming trading period there is an entry point for negotiations at €47.5 million (about ?42 million), with a bid of €60 million obliging Leipzig to sell. Next year, it turns into a straight €40 million release clause before dropping to €25 million in 2022. The clause is active from the start of each summer window and expires each June 15. No arrangement applies in winter windows.
Before this season was paused in March, Werner is thought to have talked personally to Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp, Manchester United and Barcelona, while his representatives spoke to Chelsea.
Although the Germany international is said to have been flattered by such admiration from clubs he holds in the highest regard, the present destination of choice if he leaves Leipzig would be Anfield. Based on factors including the coach, team-mates, playing style and environment, Werner has identified Liverpool as the best fit — on and off the pitch — for him at this stage of his career.
