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When Liverpool could open Timo Werner transfer talks as Man Utd join race for striker
Liverpool are being strongly linked with a summer move for Timo Werner.
Liverpool: Werner would be 'a great signing' claims pundit
Liverpool could open talks with RB Leipzig over a move for Timo Werner as early as March, according to reports. Jurgen Klopp has opted against splashing the cash in the past three transfer windows.
The Liverpool boss has been so far vindicated in his choice with Liverpool winning the Champions League last year and need just 12 points to win their first top flight title in 30 years.
They have blown apart their Premier League rivals this season, sitting 22 points ahead of defending champions Manchester City.
But there is expected to be more transfer activity this summer to maintain their position at the top of English football.
The scheduling of the 2020 Olympic Games, with the football final being played on August 8, coincides with the start of the Premier League.
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Then there is the small matter of the Africa Cup of Nations in the New Year where the likes of Sadio Mane, Mohamed Salah and Naby Keita will likely be taking part.
That could leave Klopp short of options up front with the attacking trio of Roberto Firmino, Salah and Mane missing just six games between them this season.
And back-up option Xherdan Shaqiri has struggled for fitness this campaign with reports suggesting he could leave at the end of the season along with Adam Lallana.
Werner seems to be the top target for Liverpool, with the Germany international establishing himself as one of Europe’s deadliest strikers.
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And there is a clause in his contract at Leipzig where he could agree a £51million transfer if a deal is negotiated before an April deadline.
Klopp has traditionally looked to do his business early in the summer and The Athletic report the Liverpool boss could attempt to open negotiations with Leipzig next month.
Liverpool have begun discussions on deals in the past for Fabinho and Alisson.
Werner has also indicated he is looking at Liverpool as a viable option, flirting about a potential move to Anfield recently.
“Liverpool are the best team in the world at the moment, and when you're linked with that team it makes me very proud,” he said.
“It's a pleasure but I know Liverpool play a lot of good players and I have to improve myself and to learn much more things to get on this level to play there.”
And the 23-year-old believes he would be well suited playing under Klopp.
“Jurgen Klopp is the best coach in the world,” he told Sky Germany.
“There is a lot to suggest that my style of play would suit there (Liverpool).”