Bayern Munich delay contract talks with Barcelona key midfield target

In what could be a possible boost for FC Barcelona, Bayern Munich have decided to delay contract talks with midfielder Joshua Kimmich until after the Euros, reports BILD (h/t SPORT).

This development could play an important role in the decision of the midfielder, who is being courted by some top clubs, including Barcelona and Manchester City.

Bayern want to retain Kimmich, but freeze talks

As per the report, Bayern Munich sporting director Max Eberl has spoken with Kimmich personally and informed him of the club’s desire to keep him at the club.

However, the Bavarian giants decided to freeze contract talks with the 29-year-old for now and revisit the issue once the UEFA Euro 2024 is out of the way.

Kimmich, who will be playing an important part for Germany in the tournament, taking place in his homeland, is understood to be not entirely pleased by the development.

After all, Kimmich would be left hanging for a few weeks and without the possibility of making a decision about his future.

Kimmich is a top target for Barcelona. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)

However, the report adds that the German international will continue to prioritise his continuity at the Bavarian club, where he feels at ease and would be happy with the arrival of Vincent Kompany as the new coach.

As such, he will wait for Bayern to know first-hand the final offer they present to him. In fact, it is the player himself who is negotiating as he has no agent and so far there has been no proposal on the table.

What about Barcelona?

As for Barcelona, they have already spoken to Kimmich and are awaiting his final decision. In fact, the Catalans presented him with an initial financial proposal that the player allegedly rejected.

Everything will now depend on the final move made by Bayern, a club that wants to reduce its wage bill during the summer.

If there is no agreement, Bayern will open the door for a sale because his contract expires in 2025 and they do not want him to leave on a free transfer, clearing the path for Barcelona.