Timo Werner Eyes Move to Inter Miami Amid Uncertain Future at RB Leipzig

Timo Werner’s future at RB Leipzig seems to be reaching its conclusion, as the 29-year-old forward is reportedly eyeing a high-profile transfer to Inter Miami, where he aspires to play alongside superstar Lionel Messi. This season, Werner has featured for just one minute and has not been included in Leipzig’s matchday squads, making a winter departure increasingly probable.

According to Bild, Werner is particularly enticed by Inter Miami’s ambitious project and the global appeal of playing with Messi, whose arrival has significantly altered the landscape of Major League Soccer (MLS). The allure of Miami—both in terms of sporting aspirations and lifestyle—is believed to resonate with Werner and his wife, Paula, positioning South Florida as an appealing destination for his career revival.

A potential move to MLS was already under consideration last summer when the New York Red Bulls expressed interest through their connections within the Red Bull network. At that time, Werner was hesitant to leave Leipzig due to his substantial salary and his belief in a potential resurgence in Germany. However, his circumstances have since deteriorated, prompting the need for a winter transfer to avoid drifting towards free agency as his contract runs until 2026.

Werner’s most viable opportunity in MLS faltered when the New York Red Bulls ultimately decided to cease negotiations, a situation clarified by the club’s athletic director, Julian de Guzman. Last week, de Guzman acknowledged that the forward had been on their radar, stating, “There have always been rumors about Werner,” but emphasized the necessity for any deal to align with New York’s long-term goals. He noted, “We have to make sure it makes sense for us here in New York.”

De Guzman also underscored Werner’s appeal from a fan perspective, asserting, “Werner is a great name. I think the fans would have loved him. The opportunity was there, but I don’t think we were 100 percent convinced that this was the right thing for New York. That’s why we didn’t fully commit to it.”

Financial considerations played a crucial role, as Werner reportedly earns €10 million per year at Leipzig, while New York was unable and unwilling to meet that threshold for a Designated Player position. Additionally, Werner was not prepared to lower his salary demands, contributing to the collapse of discussions.

With the Red Bulls withdrawing their interest, Werner has redirected his focus to Inter Miami, a club renowned for its star-studded roster, global visibility, and a clear path toward competing for championships. Messi’s presence remains the primary draw, as the Argentine continues to exert a transformative impact on the club’s recruitment and profile.

Inter Miami’s roster structure for 2026 presents a feasible opportunity. The impending retirements of Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets, Messi’s close aide, will create two Designated Player slots, while Rodrigo De Paul is expected to occupy one if his loan becomes permanent, leaving one DP spot open for a high-profile signing like Werner.

From a sporting standpoint, Werner would provide versatility across the front line, potentially stepping in for Luis Suarez if he were to depart, thus offering Miami an experienced and agile option as they head into the new MLS calendar cycle in 2026. The lifestyle aspect also favors Miami, with Werner viewing the city as an ideal setting to rejuvenate his career.

The next steps depend on Inter Miami’s internal assessment and their willingness to allocate a Designated Player slot—and potentially a significant salary—toward a striker whose performance has waned since his time at Chelsea. While Werner is keen to join Messi in Florida, reports indicate that Miami’s interest is not yet confirmed, leaving the door open for other MLS suitors.

For Leipzig, the upcoming winter transfer window will be critical, as Marco Rose has marginalized the striker, making a move abroad the most viable option to prevent a stagnant final 18 months of his contract. Meanwhile, Miami faces a busy rebuild as they prepare for the 2026 season, with pressing decisions regarding Suarez’s future, the Designated Player structure, and several expiring contracts.