Chelsea striker Timo Werner is not returning value for Roman Abramovich's investment and Paul Merson believes the owner might have to dig into his pocket again for a "natural goalscorer."

It's clear to see that the German has struggled with his job of scoring goals since leaving the Bundesliga for Chelsea in a £45million deal last summer.

Werner, 25, has netted just three times since February with a total of 13 in all competitions across his first season.

That figure is well below last season's total of 35 for RB Leipzig and Sky Sports pundit feels it is time for Chelsea to look at others who can consistently deliver goals.

Timo Werner scored against Real Madrid but has struggled for Chelsea in general
Timo Werner scored against Real Madrid but has struggled for Chelsea in general

"Watching Chelsea in recent weeks, I personally think they need to buy a striker," he told Sky Sports.

"They need someone who is going to be in the top four or five goal scorers in the Premier League next season. You need that if you are going to challenge for the Premier League.

"You need a natural goal scorer there who puts that in the back of the net with the minimum of fuss."

Merson went further in his criticism of Werner for making poorly timed runs that have seen him flagged up for offside.

"I watch Timo Werner and I just think there's something missing still. His decision making isn't great," added the former Arsenal striker.

Thomas Tuchel (2R) congratulates Chelsea's Danish defender Andreas Christensen after the UEFA Champions League second leg semi-final football match between Chelsea and Real Madrid
Thomas Tuchel has guided Chelsea into the FA Cup and Champions League finals since taking over from Frank Lampard

"He's certainly not a lazy player, but he's just got to take more care in making runs in behind. He runs offside too many times for me."

Merson did heap praise on Chelsea's German coach Thomas Tuchel, who has steered the club into two cup finals.

Chelsea face Manchester City in the Champions League final on 29 May after already beating Pep Guardiola's side twice in the FA Cup and with Saturday's 2-1 win in the Premier League.

"Looking at Tuchel since the day he arrived at Stamford Bridge, I don't think he's a manager that struggles with his confidence, but the two wins over Guardiola are big moments for him," Merson said.

"He's so clever, very confident, very assured in what he's doing, and I've been so impressed with him."

READ MORE: Footballer flies into post and knocks goal down while scoring

READ MORE: Fans spot Tyson Fury black eye as he steps up Anthony Joshua sparring