Bayern Munich is concerned that Joshua Kimmich, their midfield player, is letting his contract lapse in order to sign for FC Barcelona for free in 2025, according to Bild,
The Bavarians are aware that Xavi Hernandez, the head coach of the Catalans, has been in communication with Kimmich, according to the reputable German source.
Rather than lose him for nothing a year later, they are willing to bargain for his transfer to the La Liga champions this summer for a reduced price.
As the Blaugrana got ready for life after Sergio Busquets, Kimmich was Xavi’s top target ahead of the 2023–2024 campaign, along with Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi.
According to Forbes, After 15 years in the first team, former captain Busquets declared he was leaving the club of his dreams. He later joined Lionel Messi, another legendary former Barcelona player, at Inter Miami, where Jordi Alba and Luos Suarez currently play.
Due to their financial situation, Barca was unable to pursue Kimmich or Zubimendi, whose asking prices exceeded $76 million (€70 million).
Instead, the team had to make do with Oriol Romeu, a La Masia graduate who came from nearby Girona for a little less money—roughly $4.4 million (€3.9 million).
Romeu made an early impression on the season and then lost his way due to a run of subpar games that coincided with Frenkie de Jong’s injury.
But Kimmich would be the ideal double pivot partner for the Dutchman, and this strategy would let Kimmich’s Germany captain Gundogan perform at the highest level in a more advanced role.
Robert Lewandowski, Kimmich’s former Bayern teammate, was short on supplies when Gundogan had to drop deeper after De Jong sustained an injury in the first half of a thrilling victory over Celta Vigo.
See Also: Bayern Munich Set To Improve Offer For Kieran Trippier
In order to sign Kimmich, Barcelona could persuade him to sign for them without charge, much like they did with Gundogan when his contract with Manchester City was about to expire.
However, as Bild notes, if Bayern does manage to work out a reduced price, a transfer in 2024 might also be feasible, assuming Barca can raise the necessary money.
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