RB Leipzig announced on Thursday that they have prematurely terminated the contract of German striker Timo Werner, which was originally set to expire on June 30th. Werner's next destination is confirmed to be MLS powerhouse San Jose Earthquakes, with a contract running until June 2028.

Due to a continuous decline in his competitive form, Werner had been completely sidelined before leaving RB Leipzig. During his 13-year professional career, he played for RB Leipzig twice, making a total of 216 appearances, contributing 113 goals and 47 assists, and winning one German Cup and one German Super Cup with the team.

Besides RB Leipzig, Werner also played for Chelsea for two years (2020-2022). During that time, he made 89 appearances for Chelsea, scoring 23 goals and providing 17 assists, winning one Champions League title, one Club World Cup title, and one UEFA Super Cup title.

To facilitate the termination of his contract, RB Leipzig reportedly paid Timo Werner a €2 million severance fee. Sporting director Marcel Schäfer commented, "Timo Werner has always been an integral part of RB Leipzig's success story. He played a crucial role in the club's early seasons in the Bundesliga, during which time he was selected for the German national team. He played in Leipzig's first-ever Champions League match and subsequently won two domestic cup titles. He is very likely to remain RB Leipzig's all-time top scorer for many years to come."

"Despite the difficult situation in recent months, Titimo has demonstrated a high level of professionalism. Now, we have found a solution that satisfies all parties. We wish him all the best in MLS and in the United States, both in his professional development and personal life."

For the San Jose Earthquakes, Werner's arrival is expected to fill the attacking void left by the departures of José Martínez and Cristian Espinosa. They offered $50,000 in 2026 General Allocation Fund (GAM) to the New York Red Bulls in exchange for Werner's "priority signing rights".

All indications suggest that Werner will join as a designated player. He will wear the number 11 jersey in the San Jose earthquake .

Following the completion of the transfer, San Jose Earthquakes Sporting Director and Head Coach Bruce Arena stated: "We are delighted to have signed Timo Werner. I believe he will be one of the best signings for our team, and I am very much looking forward to his arrival in San Jose. Bringing in a player of Timo's caliber is a huge benefit for the club and the community. I believe he will bring strength, experience, and leadership to the pitch."

Werner added, “Going to the United States is always a big decision, but it has everything it takes to succeed. The stadiums and facilities are fantastic. What impressed me even more was that an experienced manager like Bruce, who has a proven track record in the league, flew to Germany to discuss the team’s plans with me. The Earthquakes fans will have a player who gives his all in every game. No matter which team I play for, I always crave to lift trophies. In the end, I always deliver on my promises. That’s why I joined the San Jose Earthquakes – for victory.”

Image source: Internet/San Jose Earthquake Official Website