Timo Werner thanks Chelsea fans after Sealing Transfer to RB Leipzig

Timo Werner has finalized his permanent return to RB Leipzig, signing a five-year contract which will keep him with the Bundesliga side until 2027 after bringing an end to his difficult two-year spell at Chelsea.

The Germany international moved to Stamford Bridge in the summer of 2020, in a deal worth £47.5m but found himself increasingly on the periphery once Thomas Tuchel took charge.

Despite that, he finished his first season in Chelsea colours winning the UEFA Champions League.

His form failed to improve during the 2021/2022 season, managing 11 goals in 37 appearances and making just 15 starts in the Premier League.

However, despite those struggles, he appeared destined to stay once Chelsea allowed Romelu Lukaku to return to Inter Milan on loan.

But when the Blues enquired about a deal for Josko Gvardiol, Leipzig hit them with a counter approach for Werner.

To their surprise, Chelsea were open to negotiate, though an initial loan deal was initially discussed.

Now the two clubs have settled on a deal, with Fabrizio Romano breaking down the arrangement.

Staggeringly, Chelsea will receive just an initial £16.9m (€20m). Reports indicate various add-ons could ultimately the deal up to £23.6m (€28m). Either way, it represents another huge loss for Chelsea.

In a statement on their official website, Chelsea paid tribute to Werner: “All at Chelsea thank Timo for his contribution to our success over the past two years and wish him well for his future career.”

And the amicable departure of Werner also sees the player offering his thanks to the Chelsea supporters.

“Dear Blues, today marks the end of my journey with Chelsea,” he wrote. I am incredibly grateful for the time I spent at this special club. At this point I would like to express my appreciation for my teammate, the coaches and staff, and especially for you, the special supporters.

“I felt so much love and support throughout the last two years and I will never forget how you guys stood behind me in good and in challenging times!

“We lifted trophies like the Champions League together and I will always remember the song you wrote and chanted for me.

“I’m already looking forward to hopefully playing at Stamford Bridge again one day!”

Werner returns to Leipzig where he scored 95 goals in 159 appearances over four seasons. And the 26-year-old will hope to pick up where he left off for the Bundesliga outfit.