Even though FC Bayern have spent a lot of money on new defenders in recent transfer windows, it seems that Munich are planning to invest heavily in their defence again next summer. According to the report, Bayern could spend up to 140 million euros on two new defenders.
FC Bayern’s planned squad shake-up encompasses almost all parts of the team, including the defence. Although the German record champions have spent almost 150 million euros on players such as Matthijs de Ligt, Minjae Kim and Sacha Boey over the past two years, it appears that the team at Säbener Straße are not satisfied with their defensive personnel.
As reported by Sport BILD, two defenders, Ronald Araujo from FC Barcelona and Jeremie Frimpong from Bayer Leverkusen, are at the top of Munich’s transfer list.
Will Alonso bring Frimpong to FC Bayern?
According to the paper, both players have a release clause and could leave their clubs early in the summer. Accordingly, right-back Frimpong would be available for around 40 million euros. However, the option must be exercised before the 2024 European Football Championship. This would no longer be possible after the tournament.
The 23-year-old Dutchman has been on FCB’s radar for some time. Should Bayern win the bid for Xabi Alonso, they would have good prospects for Frimpong at the same time.
However, one thing is clear: if the full-back were to arrive, the club would have to part with one or two players in this position. With Boey, Noussair Mazraoui and loan returnee Josip Stanisic, Bayern currently have three regular right-backs under contract.
Will Bayern make another attempt at Aurajo?
Araujo would be significantly more expensive. According to Sport BILD, his release clause is just under 100 million euros. Bayern failed to lure the Uruguayan from Barça to the Bundesliga in the winter. The reason for this is said to have been a transfer veto by coach Xavi. He is leaving the club in the summer. In addition, the Catalans are still struggling financially and are reliant on profitable player sales.
Similar to the right-back position, Bayern would first have to create space in the centre of defence. With Eric Dier, de Ligt, Kim and Dayot Upamecano, FCB already have four centre-backs. Rumours have recently been circulating that Upamecano could be a candidate for sale in the summer.
It is also unclear whether Munich’s new head coach is still interested in Araujo. Up until now, Araujo has always been Thomas Tuchel’s favourite player.
