Bayern Munich midfielder Joshua Kimmich has played down speculation linking with a move away from the Allianz Arena this summer.
Since joining the club from RB Leipzig in 2015, the 28-year-old has established himself as an important cog in the Bavarian machine, scoring 40 goals and registering 94 assists in 347 appearances across all competitions.
Kimmich has progressed from a right-back to a midfielder during his career, and he was one of the first names on Bayern’s teamsheet in the 2022-23 season, starting 45 of his 46 games.
However, the Germany international has only two years left on his contract at the Allianz Arena, and talk over his long-term future has surfaced in recent months.
Barcelona manager Xavi stated his desire in recruiting “super top player” Kimmich to Camp Nou this summer.
The Catalan giants are looking for midfield reinforcements following the departure of long-serving lynchpin Sergio Busquets.
Arsenal, Manchester City, and Liverpool are also reported to be interested in signing Kimmich ahead of the 2023-24 season.
See Also: Kim Min-jae ‘To Join Manchester United From July 1’
Despite the interest in his services, Kimmich has stated that he has “big plans” for Bayern over the next two seasons.
Kimmich told German news outlet Bild, as quoted by the Evening Standard, while on international duty: “It was difficult not to come across it [the rumours].” Generally, I’m not too invested in the rumours.
“I still have, as everyone knows, two years left on my contract and we have big plans [for those two years] at Bayern.”
Kimmich, who has won eight Bundesliga crowns and the Champions League at the Allianz Arena, is regarded to be ‘untouchable’ by Bayern.
Kimmich struck a 91st-minute penalty to help Germany salvage a 3-3 draw against Ukraine in their 1,000th international match on Monday.
COMMENTS