RB Leipzig sporting director Ralf Rangnick has indicated that Bayern Munich are in pole position to sign Timo Werner ahead of Liverpool.
The German striker has attracted a lot of interest from around Europe as a result of his displays in the Bundesliga over the last two years, helping Leipzig challenge at the top of the table.
The 22-year-old has hit 11 goals in 22 appearances this term and according to the Daily Express, Liverpool have been monitoring his progress closely ahead of a potential bid in the summer.
Reds boss Jurgen Klopp is already looking to strengthen his side again at the end of the current campaign regardless of how successful they are between now and May, with Werner at the top of his list of targets.
However, according to Leipzig chief Rangnick, the young attacker is only likely to be sold in the event that Bayern Munich make a solid bid for his signature.
As The Express reports, Rangnick recently told Sky Germany: “If Bayern are serious, then it will be difficult for us.
“But they often play with one striker, so I see him staying with us for the next two or three years.”
Timo Werner
This latest news represents a blow for Klopp, who might have hoped to convince Werner to move to Anfield and challenge himself in the Premier League.
Unfortunately for Liverpool, it looks as though Werner sees his immediate future in his homeland and if he is to take a step up it will only be with reigning German champions Bayern.
As per Goal, back in December Werner admitted that Bayern is the only club in the Bundesliga he would consider leaving Leipzig for and if they do indeed follow through on their approach as expected, he will be plying his trade at the Allianz Arena next season.
For now, at least, Liverpool may need to consider looking elsewhere for reinforcements but the transfer market is always unpredictable, meaning a future deal for Werner should still not be ruled out completely.