Juventus are reportedly interested in Timo Werner to replace Mario Mandzukic

Juventus did an amazing job bringing in reinforcements this past summer in positions of need.

• At right back, we brought in Joao Cancelo from Sevilla to replace Lichtsteiner.

• We reinforced our midfield having brought Emre Can in on a free from Liverpool.

• We brought in Goalkeeper Mattia Perin from Genoa to compete with Szczesny for the starting role.

• And brought in one of the best players from the last century in Cristiano Ronaldo to reinforce an already deadly attack.

Now Calciomercato is reporting that Juventus are interested in acquiring RB Leipzig and German striker, Timo Werner to replace Mandzukic. Earlier I reported that Super Mario is seeking a contract extension without a wage increase. Last year in the Bundesliga, Werner scored 13 goals and provided 7 assists in 32 appearances. He has blistering pace which helps him perform best in a counter attacking system.

From a financial point of view, there’s no reason to spend on an attacking player when we’re already loaded in this area. That is, unless an important player leaves next summer. Transfermarkt has his current market value at €60+ million. Although, in this current market, RB Leipzig will without a doubt not let him go unless an offer substantially above that is submitted. With the addition of Ronaldo and his crazy $30+ million salary, it won’t be easy to bring in anyone else without an existing Juve player being sold.

From an overall performance point of view, I’m not sure Werner is ready for that next step in his career. He doesn't convince me of being a player that is ready to play for one of Europe's top clubs. Although, he is without a doubt one of the most promising players in his position. If it were to happen, with the quality of players that could potentially be around him, it would definitely help him stay on the score sheet but there’s no guarantee in this. Another season or more with RB Leipzig would be great for his development in my opinion.

Let’s assume that the report can be taken literally. Juventus want to bring Werner in to replace Mandzukic. There are reports that Mandzukic apparently is looking to extend his contract with Juventus without a pay raise. At the moment, he has been in great form and if he continues like this, I don’t see Juve getting rid of him in the near future. He is super dynamic being able to play in multiple positions and provide a much needed defensive presence. In the biggest of games, he is also more than likely to have a great performance. Mandzukic is simply put, very hard to replace and Werner isn’t ready to fill in his shoes.

Overall, I don’t see this happening. Bayern Munich have a rapidly aging attack and they will be looking to replace their older players with younger ones. Since Werner plays for a domestic rival, he seems to be the perfect fit for them and competing with Bayern for his signature will not be easy. Not to mention Juve’s biggest position of need is in midfield which will surely be the priority in the upcoming transfer windows.