Leipzig Shows Interest in Hwang Hee-chan as Werner's Replacement

After the Austrian Football Association Cup semifinal on March 6, Hwang Hee-chan was seen. Photo by Salzburg Twitter capture

[Asia Economy Intern Reporter Min Jun-young] RB Leipzig, the 3rd place team in the German Bundesliga, is showing interest in Hwang Hee-chan (24, Red Bull Salzburg).

German media outlet 'Bild' reported on the 12th (Korean time) that "Leipzig has identified Hwang Hee-chan as a replacement for Timo Werner, who is likely to transfer to Chelsea."

Werner is reportedly confirmed to move to Chelsea in the English Premier League (EPL) this coming summer.

Chelsea is expected to pay the transfer fee of ?53 million (approximately 80.9 billion KRW) set by Leipzig for Werner.

Meanwhile, Leipzig is searching for a player to replace Werner.

Bild stated, "Leipzig and Salzburg are sister clubs, and their systems are similar. Hwang Hee-chan will likely have no major issues adapting to the new team," adding, "There have been consistent transfers between the two clubs in recent years."

Another German media outlet, 'SPOX,' also reported a specific amount, saying "Leipzig has offered €15 million (approximately 20 billion KRW) to acquire Hwang Hee-chan."

This season, Hwang Hee-chan has appeared in a total of 33 matches, scoring 14 goals and providing 19 assists.

In particular, he has played 6 matches in the UEFA Champions League group stage, scoring 3 goals and providing 5 assists.

Meanwhile, Leipzig was founded in 2009 in the 5th division and was promoted to the German Bundesliga in the 2016-2017 season.

Leipzig finished as league runners-up in their first season after promotion and is currently ranked 3rd in the league.