The signs are growing ever stronger: Manuel Neuer is on the verge of extending his contract with FC Bayern. Sporting director Max Eberl has publicly confirmed the ongoing talks – and has given an optimistic impression
Sky and BILD recently reported that the club and player had agreed in principle on an extension until 2027, meaning that the official announcement of the new contract could even be made this week
Ahead of the Bundesliga season finale against 1. FC Köln, Max Eberl also commented on the current situation – and expressly did not deny the reports. „We are talking to each other, talks are continuing. But things are looking good,“ explained the Bayern sporting director at the final press conference
However, Eberl also made it clear that the extension is not yet complete: „There is nothing to announce yet.“
A presentation around FC Bayern’s championship celebrations is apparently also on the cards. On Saturday, the Munich team will officially receive the championship trophy in the Allianz Arena after the last Bundesliga match of the season. The following day, the traditional celebration will take place on the Rathausbalkon on Munich’s Marienplatz
Neuer apparently accepts salary cut
Particularly interesting: According to information from Sky, Neuer is said to have been prepared to accept financial cuts as part of the contract extension, meaning the 40-year-old would support Bayern’s economic course as they look to further reduce their salary structure in the coming years
Internally, Neuer’s extension is still seen as an important part of the sporting plan despite his age. The record champions are focusing on a smooth transition in goal – together with Jonas Urbig, who is to receive even more playing time in the future
Bayern continue to plan with Neuer as number 1
Despite his age, Neuer continues to deliver strong performances in sporting terms. The 2014 World Cup winner has repeatedly shown that he can still perform at the highest level, particularly in the big matches in the Champions League
At the same time, Bayern are pushing ahead with their plans for the future, with Urbig already the designated successor, who has attracted attention with strong performances this season.