Barcelona have edge over Real Madrid in pursuit of €35 million Bayern Munich ace

Bayern Munich star midfielder Joshua Kimmich is attracting significant interest from both Barcelona and Real Madrid. 

Kimmich’s current contract with Bayern Munich is set to expire in 2025, and he is currently considering his future options. It seems increasingly likely that he may leave Germany during the summer transfer window.

As for Bayern Munich, they are clear on their stance: if Kimmich decides not to extend his contract, the club is open to selling him. 

As far as the fee is concerned, there is speculation that the transfer could cost around €35 million.

Real Madrid pull out of the race

Earlier in 2024, rumours surfaced about Kimmich potentially being the ideal replacement for Real Madrid’s veteran midfielder Toni Kroos, who is considering retirement at the age of 34. 

However, there has been no official confirmation on the matter, and Real Madrid are hopeful that Kroos will continue to play for at least one more season.

Carlo Ancelotti said Kimmich threw himself at Nacho. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

This gives Barcelona the edge and renewed hope as they see him as one of the key players to reinforce the side next season, reports Mundo Deportivo.

Real Madrid’s loss is Barcelona’s gain

Real Madrid’s recent match against Bayern Munich featured a notable incident involving Kimmich that might have prompted Real Madrid to reconsider any plans to sign him.

Carlo Ancelotti responded to Bayern’s complaints about the referee’s calls during the game’s controversial final moments, which ultimately led to the German team’s elimination.

“We also complain about the annulment of a legal goal, Kimmich threw himself at Nacho,” said the Madrid manager.

Upon reviewing Ancelotti and Kimmich’s shared history at Bayern, it becomes apparent that their working relationship could have been smoother. 

In June 2022, Kimmich mentioned that since joining Bayern in 2015, he only considered the idea of leaving the club once. That moment occurred when Ancelotti was coaching the team during the 2016-17 season.

Considering the friction between the two, Barcelona seem to have a clear way in their pursuit and the only thing that continues to hinder their progress is their financial instability.