The signs are pointing to his departure: Leon Goretzka will leave FC Bayern next summer. After eight years at the German record champions, one of the most formative midfield eras in the club’s recent history is coming to an end – and it is already becoming apparent that the 30-year-old could become one of the most sought-after players of the summer transfer window
As reported by the portal Fussballdaten, seven international clubs are said to be keeping an eye on the German international. Interest from Turkey is particularly concrete. Galatasaray and Fenerbahce had already made intensive efforts to sign Goretzka in the winter, but failed due to his clear decision to finish the season at FC Bayern. Both top Istanbul clubs want to make another attempt in the summer – then on a free transfer
Atlético Madrid also remain a hot candidate. The Madrilenians were considered the most serious interested party around deadline day and are said to still be very interested in signing him. Juventus Turin also see the experienced midfielder as a potential leading player for the transition in the center
Three other prominent Premier League clubs – Arsenal, Manchester United and West Ham United – have also been mentioned. The prospect of being able to sign a top international player without paying a transfer fee makes Goretzka particularly attractive to many clubs
Bayern announce his departure in the summer
Sporting director Christoph Freund already confirmed last week that Goretzka and FC Bayern will part ways. „We have communicated openly with everyone involved, his contract expires in the summer. (…) In the summer, his path at FC Bayern will be over,“ the Austrian explained last Friday
At the same time, Freund emphasized the importance of the midfielder for the club: eight years, numerous titles and an era that has been „extremely successful.“ Nevertheless, Goretzka should remain fully focused until the last matchday and fight for more titles with the team
The player himself has also taken a clear stance recently. On Instagram, Goretzka made it clear that he feels fully committed to FC Bayern despite the huge international interest. His goal is to bring the season to a successful conclusion and to be „back at Marienplatz with full hands“ in May
What comes after that remains to be seen, but according to Sky, Goretzka would like to clarify his sporting future before the World Cup.