Bayern Munich confident of retaining Barcelona target as renewal talks underway

Transfer market expert Fabrizio Romano has revealed that Bayern Munich are increasingly optimistic about securing a new contract with Joshua Kimmich. 

The German midfielder’s current agreement runs until 2025, and discussions have begun as Kimmich appears more willing to negotiate than he was last season. 

Furthermore, despite speculation linking him to Paris Saint-Germain, Barcelona and Real Madrid, Bayern are keen on retaining Kimmich as a central figure in their future plans.

Familiar faces

It must be noted that Kimmich has been on Barcelona’s radar for the past two summers, with both Xavi and Hansi Flick expressing interest in bringing him to the Catalan club. Ultimately, however, Kimmich chose to remain at Bayern Munich.

For what it is worth, Flick has played a pivotal role in Kimmich’s development at Bayern, most notably converting him from a midfielder to a right-back during his two-year stint with the Bavarians. 

Joshua Kimmich is closer to staying at Bayern Munich. (Photo by Alex Grimm/Getty Images)

This strategic move added to Kimmich’s versatility, as he had primarily been utilized as a midfielder alongside Thiago Alcantara in a double-pivot formation. 

Eventually, when Benjamin Pavard, the regular right-back for Bayern, suffered an injury, Flick’s decision to shift Kimmich to the right-back position became a long-term strategy that enhanced the player’s tactical depth and capabilities. 

Barcelona’s interest

Barcelona has shown significant interest in Kimmich, particularly for his strengths in midfield. 

However, his ability to adapt to the right flank is also appealing, especially considering that Jules Kounde currently lacks an experienced backup other than the young Hector Fort. 

Throughout the summer transfer window, Kimmich was frequently linked with Barcelona, leading many to speculate that if he did not sign an extension with Bayern, he might consider a move to Barcelona due to Flick’s influence. 

Nonetheless, recent reports suggest that the German international is now more inclined to stay with Bayern Munich rather than seek a transfer, signalling a shift in his potential future.