English Premier League

Ralf Rangnick keen on signing Chelsea star Timo Werner

Manchester United interim boss Ralf Rangnick is ‘keen to discuss’ the signing of Chelsea forward Timo Werner with his board.

The German was appointed interim manager for the remainder of the season earlier this week and he’ll take on a two-year consultancy role at Old Trafford from next summer.

Rangnick will advise the board on all football decisions, including recruitment. The 63-year-old is known to have one of the sharpest tactical minds in world football but his expertise in recruitment is also highly-regarded.

The German coach managed Werner during his time at RB Leipzig and the Chelsea forward understands Rangnick’s high-press philosophy.

Werner has struggled at Chelsea since completing a £54m move to Stamford Bridge in 2020, scoring just seven Premier League goals in 43 appearances.

Rangnick therefore wants to discuss a move for Werner with his board, according to Sport Bild, though any move will have to wait until next summer as Chelsea wouldn’t consider offers in the January transfer window.

United are well stocked in forward positions but Edinson Cavani and Anthony Martial are likely to leave at the end of the season, while Jesse Lingard could be sold next month.

Rangnick is awaiting a visa in order to start his role at Old Trafford but he was at the club’s training ground today.

Michael Carrick is set to take charge for Thursday’s clash against Arsenal but United hope the German will lead the side out against Crystal Palace this weekend.