Factors that could help Barcelona sign €60 million-rated Bayern Munich superstar – report

Despite reaching the semifinal of the UEFA Champions League, Bayern Munich are gearing up for a difficult summer ahead, with the club poised to lose multiple star players.

Alphonso Davies has been closely linked with a move to Real Madrid. And the Canadian might not be the only Bayern star moving to Spain this summer, with even Joshua Kimmich being linked with a move to Barcelona.

A recent report from Sky Sports Germany (h/t Mundo Deportivo) has highlighted that the situation around Kimmich has changed drastically and the player may indeed leave Bavaria in the coming summer.

The report has also highlighted several factors that could help bring Kimmich closer to Catalonia.

Kimmich’s woes at Bayern

Kimmich has endured a tumultuous campaign at Bayern this season. The midfielder has had to operate in the right-back position and his synergy with Thomas Tuchel is not healthy at all.

The two have had disagreements throughout the campaign, which has led to Kimmich even considering a move elsewhere.

Although Kimmich is unlikely to decide his future before knowing who will replace Tuchel at Bayern this summer, the fact that the club itself were willing to let Tuchel misuse Kimmich does paint a bad picture, as far as Bayern are concerned.

Will Kimmich come to Catalonia this summer? (Photo by Alex Grimm/Getty Images)

This is coupled with Bayern’s poor Bundesliga campaign, which saw them surrender the league title to Bayer Leverkusen. Bayern may even endure a trophyless campaign if they lose to Real Madrid in the UCL semifinals.

Outside forces

Other than Kimmich’s tense relationship with Bayern Munich, there are several other outside factors aiding Barcelona.

For one, the German’s contract in Bavaria expires in 2025, which will significantly lower his price tag, knowing Bayern would not like to see their star midfielder leave the club for a free transfer.

Moreover, Kimmich appears to be a great admirer of Xavi. In fact, he considers Xavi as one of his idols and one would expect the German would welcome the idea of playing under the former Barcelona midfielder, provided he stays at the club.

Barcelona, meanwhile, are increasingly confident about returning to the 1:1 rule, which should go a long way in helping the club fund a move for Kimmich.

The sale of Oriol Romeu, too, could be critical as it will effectively allow Barça to make space in the squad and give Joan Laporta another excuse to go after a star defensive midfielder such as Kimmich.

*Player valuation in title obtained from transfermarkt.com on date of publication