The future of Bayern Munich midfielder Joshua Kimmich has emerged as an interesting topic in Spanish media in recent weeks, especially given the player’s contractual situation.
Nearing the end of his deal in Germany, the player is unsure of renewing at Bayern Munich and is open to trying a new challenge.
Both Barcelona and Real Madrid are alert on that front and have emerged as the frontrunners to sign him should he opt for a departure.
Reports last week, in fact, placed the Blaugrana as slight favourites over Los Blancos.
Meanwhile, Bayern Munich are the third big party in the fray as they run from pillar to post hoping for a contract extension.
Bayern sporting director has his say
Speaking to the media recently, Bayern Munich’s sporting director Max Eberl commented on how the Real Madrid target was a crucial part of Bayern Munich’s plans and a non-negotiable member of Vincent Kompany’s dynamics
“We need Joshua Kimmich to be a face of the project,” he said, as quoted by Fabrizio Romano.
“His performances, willingness, heart, he is predestined for that. He should be the captain of Bayern Munich of the future,” he added, laying emphasis on what the veteran brought to the table and giving him a position of importance.
Finally, the Bavarian administrator admitted that the club were pushing hard to secure Kimmich’s continuity amidst the interest from across Europe.
“But first we have to extend the contract,” he said.
As a player whose contract expires next June, the 29-year-old fits in perfectly as a target for Real Madrid given the club’s clear policy of pushing for free transfers.
The decision, needless to say, lies in Kimmich’s park as a renewal at this stage will rule out a move to Real Madrid in June.
Should he hold off Bayern’s interest as Alphonso Davies is doing now, however, Los Blancos could look to push for the signing.
So far this season, Kimmich has played three games for Bayern Munich in the Bundesliga, averaging two key passes per game and creating two big chances in the process. He also records 7.7 ball recoveries per game and completes 92% of his passes.