MOSCOW, RUSSIA - Sunday, June 17, 2018: Germany's Timo Werner during the FIFA World Cup Russia 2018 Group F match between Germany and Mexico at the Luzhniki Stadium. (Pic by David Rawcliffe/Propaganda)

Liverpool an option for Timo Werner, claims Leipzig CEO

Reported Liverpool target Timo Werner could still move to Anfield this summer, according to RP Leipzig CEO Oliver Mintzlaff.

The Reds are not expected to be doing any “lavish spending” this summer, according to the Times‘ Paul Joyce, with Jurgen Klopp reportedly happy with the majority of his squad.

A new face in Liverpool’s attack is expected, however, allowing for more rotation with Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mane and Roberto Firmino, and improving depth in a key area.

Daniel Sturridge‘s contract is up, Divock Origi‘s future is unknown and Rhian Brewster is a teenager still learning his trade.

Werner has been one of the names most heavily linked with a move to Liverpool, although the German international is wanted by a host of clubs.

Bayern Munich have looked the most likely candidates to snap up the Leipzig man until now, but the Bundesliga champions are far from guaranteed their man.

In an interview with Sky Sports, Mintzlaff claims Liverpool are a definite option for Werner, which would see him reunite with former teammate Naby Keita:

Leipzig's Naby Keita (L) celebrates after scoring the 0-1 lead with team-mate Timo Werner during the Bundesliga soccer match between Hamburg SV and RB Leipzig in the Volksparkstadium in Hamburg, Germany, 08 September 2017. Photo: Daniel Reinhardt/dpa

“Timo Werner would rather not sign an extension. But that could change.

“I don’t think it’s completely out of the question that he could extend his deal. We haven’t talked to Bayern Munich about Timo Werner yet.

“Maybe he doesn’t even want to go to Munich. Maybe he would rather join (Thomas) Tuchel in Paris, (Jurgen) Klopp at Liverpool or (Lucien) Favre at Dortmund.”

Werner has enjoyed another productive season for Leipzig, scoring 19 goals in 35 appearances and helping them reach the German Cup final against Bayern on May 25.

A fresh challenge appeals to the 23-year-old, whose versatile, energetic style of play is perfectly suited to Liverpool’s under Klopp.

While Werner wouldn’t necessarily be a guaranteed regular, he would be a valuable signing and someone with huge potential.

Bayern are still favourites to sign the Germany international, but it is a sign of the Reds’ current standing that they are battling the European giants for his signature.