The San Jose Earthquakes are closing in on a deal to sign German forward Timo Werner from RB Leipzig, according to multiple reports. MLS insider Tom Bogert reported the move is “close but not 100% done,” and Fabrizio Romano followed by saying a verbal agreement has been reached for Werner to join San Jose in the coming days.
Reuters also echoed the reporting, noting that San Jose is “nearing a deal” and that Werner would arrive as a Designated Player—a major swing for an Earthquakes side still looking for a true headline attacker.
If it gets over the line, Werner would immediately become one of the most recognizable names to ever put on an Earthquakes shirt in the modern MLS era. The 29-year-old has played at the highest level for club and country—57 caps, 24 goals for Germany, and a career that includes stops at RB Leipzig, Chelsea, and Tottenham.
From a roster-building standpoint, the DP tag matters. Reuters reported San Jose still has one DP slot open, and this move would use it on a player with elite pace and Champions League experience—exactly the type of “difference maker” MLS teams usually chase when they want to jump a level fast.
The backdrop here is simple: Werner needs a reset.
Reports out of Europe have painted a picture of limited opportunities at Leipzig this season, with Reuters citing just 13 minutes played in the Bundesliga campaign so far. If you’re San Jose, that’s the opportunity—finding a player whose talent is still obvious, but whose situation has stalled out enough to make a move realistic.
This wouldn’t be Werner’s first attempt at a fresh start outside Germany either. He joined Chelsea in 2020, later returned to Leipzig, and spent time on loan at Tottenham.
On the field, Werner’s calling card has always been his speed, movement, and ability to stretch a back line. San Jose has had moments of strong chance creation, but they’ve also needed more consistent finishing and more top-end threat up front.
Reuters noted San Jose scored 60 goals last season (7th-most in MLS). The problem wasn’t always creating—it was turning games into wins and finding that extra gear in tight moments. A DP attacker who can threaten in transition and open space for others is the type of addition that can change how teams have to defend you.
There’s also a roster domino effect element here. Reuters framed this news in the context of recent squad movement, noting it comes after Josef Martínez’s departure to Tijuana, with San Jose still having that DP slot available. Right now, this is still in the “almost there” stage, not a confirmed signing.
Bogert’s reporting described the deal as close but unfinished, while Romano’s update pointed to a verbal agreement and the expectation that the move progresses soon. From here, the typical remaining steps are final paperwork, medical, and league/registration details—especially important with an international transfer. Until San Jose (or Leipzig) announces it - If it completes, it’s a statement signing—one that would put the Quakes in a very different conversation heading into the season.
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