Leon Goretzka is no more than a high-class reserve at FC Bayern, but is highly sought-after in other European countries. According to the latest reports, a bidding war could develop for the 30-year-old this winter – and bring the record champions an attractive transfer fee
Things have been comparatively quiet around Leon Goretzka in recent weeks. The midfielder no longer plays a central role under Vincent Kompany in sporting terms, while Bayern have long since restructured in the center. Alongside Joshua Kimmich, Munich are clearly focusing on the younger generation around Tom Bischof and Aleksandar Pavlovic. An extension to Goretzka’s contract, which expires in the summer of 2026, is considered a virtual impossibility both internally and externally
Despite his minor role at FC Bayern, the market for the DFB international is anything but small. According to consistent media reports, two European heavyweights, Atlético Madrid and AC Milan, are intensively involved with Goretzka. Both clubs are pursuing different strategies – which significantly strengthens Bayern’s position
Atlético want to speed things up – Milan rely on patience
While AC Milan are speculating on a free transfer in the summer, Atlético Madrid are pushing for a quick solution. The Spaniards are looking for a short-term reinforcement for their midfield center and would be prepared to pay a transfer fee to FC Bayern as early as January. This is precisely where the Munich club’s leverage lies
According to BILD, the German record champions are hoping for a sum in the double-digit millions, with transfer insider Ekrem Konur even suggesting a transfer fee of around 20 million euros. What is particularly interesting is that, according to Konur, Atlético want to deliberately avoid a possible bidding war in the summer with a winter transfer. In addition to Milan and Madrid, other clubs from England, Spain and Italy are said to have signalled their interest
This presents Bayern with a rare opportunity: instead of losing Goretzka on a free transfer in the summer, they could now capitalize on a player who is no longer a permanent fixture
Kompany decides – Bayern are already planning ahead
In principle, Bayern are open to a winter departure for Goretzka, but this would require the green light from Vincent Kompany. The head coach would have to weigh up whether he can do without the 30-year-old in the short term in view of the already thin personnel cover in the center
Should a transfer actually take place, it is already clear what would happen with the transfer fee. According to information from BILD, Munich are planning to reinvest the proceeds directly. One name in particular is in focus: Givairo Read from Feyenoord Rotterdam. The 19-year-old Dutchman is regarded as one of the most exciting talents in the right-back position and could fill one of the biggest gaps in the Bayern squad
Goretzka’s departure would not only bring in a transfer fee, but would also create considerable financial leeway. According to rumors, the midfielder is one of the top earners in the squad with an annual salary in the region of €17 million
The coming days could therefore point the way forward. If the announced bidding develops, FC Bayern will be in a comfortable position – prepared in sporting terms, financially flexible and, for the first time in a long time, not under pressure to make a move.