The San Jose Earthquakes are reportedly closing in on a deal to acquire German international striker Timo Werner from RB Leipzig. According to The Athletic, the transfer would bring the 29-year-old to Major League Soccer (MLS) and see Werner fill a Designated Player spot for the Quakes. While the deal is close, it is not yet finalized.

Werner, who has 57 caps and 24 goals for the German national team, has found himself out of favor in his third stint with RB Leipzig, making only three Bundesliga appearances this season. The Earthquakes, under manager Bruce Arena, are looking to rebuild their squad after losing key players Josef Martinez and Cristian Espinoza. Werner's proven goal-scoring record in Europe makes him a suitable replacement.

Werner began his professional career with VfB Stuttgart, before joining RB Leipzig in 2016. His impressive performances earned him a move to Chelsea in 2020, where he won the UEFA Champions League in 2021. He returned to Leipzig in 2022. In 127 Bundesliga games, Werner has 78 goals.

The move to San Jose would offer Werner a fresh start after struggling for consistent playing time at Leipzig. Leipzig reportedly informed Werner that he could leave permanently after an unsuccessful loan with Tottenham in 2025. His contract with Leipzig, worth around €10 million per year, expires next June.

Bruce Arena, who is also the sporting director for the Earthquakes, is a known admirer of Werner and has reportedly contacted Werner's representatives personally to convince him to make the move. Arena envisions Werner as the "face of the franchise" and believes his speed would be a major asset in MLS. The Earthquakes have one Designated Player spot available and are looking to fill other holes in the squad.

Werner's potential arrival would mark a significant acquisition for the Earthquakes. The club finished 10th in the Western Conference last season and are aiming to strengthen their squad for the upcoming season.