After eight years with FC Bayern, Leon Goretzka is looking for a new club. While Juventus Turin is considered a leading contender to sign him, there are conflicting reports regarding the former national team player’s financial demands. At the same time, an option from the U.S. also appears to be on the table.
Following his departure from FC Bayern, Goretzka is currently exploring his options for the next chapter of his career. Juventus Turin, in particular, has been considered a serious contender for weeks. Recently, however, reports from Italy have circulated suggesting that a move could fall through due to the 31-year-old’s high financial demands.
According to Calciomercato, Goretzka is reportedly demanding a signing bonus of 10 million euros in addition to a net salary of 7 million euros per season.
Falk denies the reports
However, BILD’s head of soccer, Christian Falk, has now refuted these speculations on the “Bayern-Insider” podcast. “I heard that very clearly from him,” Falk explained, making it clear that a potential move to Turin would not fall through due to excessive signing bonus demands.
In addition, the transfer expert pointed out that Goretzka had recently been earning an even higher annual salary at FC Bayern. Whether a move to Italy ultimately takes place depends much more on the “Old Lady’s” squad planning. Juventus is reportedly also looking at former Barcelona player Franck Kessié, who is also being linked to the central midfield position.
Another factor could be the competitive outlook. Juventus will not be competing in the Champions League next season—an aspect that could certainly play a role in Goretzka’s decision.
The MLS also remains an option
If the Champions League isn’t the deciding factor for the midfielder, a move to Major League Soccer could also be an attractive option.
According to information from BILD, Chicago Fire remains among the possible options. The club already features prominent former Bayern pros: Bastian Schweinsteiger once ended his career there, and Robert Lewandowski has also been under contract with the MLS club since this summer.
It is currently unclear when Goretzka will make his decision. However, since preseason training has already begun at most clubs, the former Bayern player will likely want to clarify his future soon. Once his contract in Munich expires, the midfielder will be able to join a new club on a free transfer, making him one of the most intriguing free agents on the transfer market.