Chelsea have until June 15 to trigger Timo Werner €55m release clause — report

As per Sky Sports, Timo Werner’s current release clause for this summer expires in less than two weeks, on June 15. After that, the release clause for next summer will only activate in June 2021. Any deals between now and then would have to go through RB Leipzig first.

So far, Leipzig been unwilling to accept anything less than the €55m buyout, which no one seems willing to pay at the moment — presumably thanks to the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Werner’s buyout is set to drop to €35m for next June however.

So who will blink first?

It’s understandable that Leipzig would want what they perceive to be a fair market price for their best player. The fact that PSG paid €50m for an older Mauro Icardi bodes well for their objective. But if Werner is set on leaving eventually, they risk losing out on millions, which could be a problem especially these days.

Chelsea meanwhile are relatively well positioned financially, and are apparently eyeing two marquee signings this summer, at least one of whom would add to the team’s attack. €55m for Werner would be a great price any other year.

Ultimately when you play the game of transfers, you win or you lose. There is no middle ground.