Joshua Kimmich’s Bayern Munich future remains unclear but he has three Premier League clubs on his radar with the German outfit prepared to sell for the right price
Joshua Kimmich is prepared to speak to five clubs as he considers leaving Bayern Munich – with Arsenal and Liverpool among those on his radar.
The Bayern midfielder’s contract is winding down in Bavaria and is considering his options after a difficult season.
Kimmich has fallen out of favour under Thomas Tuchel, who was prepared to cash in on the German international back in the summer.
The 29-year-old’s stock remains high across the continent, having won every club honour possible so far, while his contract is up in less than 18 months increasing the likelihood of a move. Premier League interest is high but Sky in Germany understands that Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester City – which could lead to a Pep Guardiola reunion – are the trio he would consider.
Kimmich reportedly has no interest in moving to Manchester United or Chelsea whilst he would also turn his nose up at PSG. Barcelona and Real Madrid are the other two clubs who could interest the midfielder should he seek a new challenge.
Bayern themselves are willing to cash in should a suitable offer arrive, but that will have to be a hefty fee. Currently Bayern’s record sale is the £42.5million they received when they offloaded Robert Lewandowski.
The player himself has remained coy on his next move when asked. He said: “Generally, my situation is clear, I still have a contract. For me it’s about showing my performances, that’s the most important thing. And then we’ll see what happens.
“I still have over a year left on my contract and no one has spoken to me yet. I’m relaxed. It’s not so bad here!”
Kimmich’s potential exit has been influenced by a fallout with Tuchel, who had concerns over what role the 29-year-old would play in his team. The ex-Chelsea boss hasn’t trusted Kimmich at the heart of midfield and issues had led the player to decide he must split if Tuchel remained past the end of the season.
Promoted Stories
The midfielder has clashed with Thomas Tuchel, who will leave Bayern this summer
Publicly Tuchel has underlined Kimmich’s importance, but made it clear he wanted more from the player. Several weeks ago he said: “Josh is an extremely important player, a leader. Josh also hasn’t been at his best in the last few games. We’re fighting for joint goals, that won’t change.”
Tuchel’s imminent departure could yet have a major impact on Kimmich’s future. His gripe has been with the manager – not the club – and a new face in the dugout could change the dynamic. Bayern are going after Xabi Alonso, who may relish having Kimmich back in his usual defensive midfield role.