Reports: Real Madrid close to confirming deal for top striker to replace Karim Benzema

What's the story?

The future of Karim Benzema has been subject to intense speculation and now latest reports in The Express claim that Real Madrid president Florentino Perez has earmarked RB Leipzig superstar Timo Werner as the Frenchman's long-term replacement. The 29-year-old's performances have come under increasing criticism and there are reports that the 12-time Champions League winners might finally sell the talented Frenchman in the coming transfer window.

Timo Werner himself has been linked to a host of top clubs across Europe and he himself admitted that he would be open to a move in the future. Speaking to German publication SportBild, Werner said:

“Until now, everything has gone well with Leipzig.

“Therefore I don’t think about what could happen in one, two or three years, but of course I want to play for a big club at some point. If I don’t extend, that doesn’t mean I’ll leave next summer. But on the other hand, it doesn’t often mean that one stays if you have a five-year contract.”

One of the brightest young talents in the game, Werner definitely looks like he will be playing among Europe's elite next season.

In case you didn't know...

Timo Werner was in fine form for Germany in the Confederations Cup

Still only 21, Werner had a stupendous 2016/17 season for RB Leipzig scoring an incredible 21 goals in the Bundesliga and guiding them to the second position. Quick, skilled on the ball and blessed with lethal finishing, Werner has made a blistering start to this year's campaign as well having scored 3 goals in 3 matches.

Tipped to become one of the game's premier strikers, the young German international will be hoping to continue his good performances.

The heart of the matter

While Karim Benzema has undoubtedly been a good player for Real Madrid over the seasons, the unforgiving and demanding Bernabeu crowd have started getting on his back for some inconsistent performances.

Real Madrid have been linked with Aubameyang and Lewandowski as well, although Los Blancos' new strategy of signing talented youngsters could see them tie up a deal for Timo Werner when the transfer window opens again in January.

Video

This is why there is such a fuss about the talented youngster.

Author's take

With Benzema now 29 and on the wane, Timo Werner could prove to be an ideal long-term replacement. Young, strong and a supreme finisher, the talented German striker could become a world class star under the guidance of Zidane.