Ex Chelsea Striker Timo Werner Transfers to San Jose Earthquakes in MLS

The German team RB Leipzig announced on Thursday that Timo Werner, previously a forward at Chelsea, has joined the San Jose Earthquakes of Major League Soccer.

Werner reached a deal with Leipzig to conclude his contract ahead of schedule by six months, paving the way for this switch.

"Timo Werner stands as a vital chapter in RB Leipzig's achievements," remarked Marcel Schaefer, the club's sporting director.

"We extend our best wishes to him for his endeavours in the MLS and the United States, on both professional and personal fronts!"

At 29 years old, Werner signs with San Jose until June 2028, becoming the second prominent German player to join an MLS team this season after Thomas Mueller's transfer to Vancouver Whitecaps in August.

"Securing a talent like Timo is exceptional for our organisation and the local supporters. He brings skill, expertise, and guidance to our squad," stated Bruce Arena, sporting director and head coach of the Earthquakes.

Following a stellar 2019-20 season where he netted 28 goals in the Bundesliga for Leipzig, Werner transferred to Chelsea.

Although he secured the Champions League title in 2021, his time at Stamford Bridge proved tough, with frequent criticism aimed at his inconsistent finishing.

He came back to Leipzig in 2022 and spent a year and a half on loan at Tottenham, yet failed to regain his peak performance.

Upon returning to Leipzig during the off-season, he featured in just three Bundesliga matches this campaign.

"The recent months posed difficulties for me, yet I gained valuable insights that I will carry forward," Werner commented.

Werner plans to keep training with Leipzig until mid-February, when he will relocate to the United States in preparation for the MLS season opener.

Boasting 113 goals from 216 outings in various competitions, Werner departs Leipzig holding their all-time scoring record.

Werner earned 57 caps for Germany with 24 goals to his name, though he has been absent from the national team since June 2023.