FC Bayern is apparently planning the next step in its squad development and is already looking into potential signings for next summer. The focus is on finding a young left winger who could serve as a backup for Luis Díaz in the future and increase competition for the position.
As Christian Falk reports in the Bayern Insider podcast, the Munich club has three specific names on its radar. What they all have in common: All three players offer a combination of promising talent and experience at the highest level.
Rio Ngumoha of Liverpool FC is said to be at the top of the wish list. However, Oskar Pietuszewski of FC Porto and Junior Kroupi of AFC Bournemouth are also being scouted by the German record champions.
The 18-year-old Ngumoha is reportedly still Munich’s top choice. Bayern Munich had already been keeping an eye on the English attacking talent last summer.
Liverpool, however, showed no willingness to let the youngster go. Instead, the Munich club signed Ismael Saibari as another attacking option. Ngumoha, however, still fits the profile they’re looking for in an attacking left winger and remains an option.
The Englishman still has a contract with the Reds through 2028 and is valued at around 50 million euros. That makes a potential transfer a challenging task. Nevertheless, Bayern is said to be maintaining contact with his family and speaking regularly with Ngumoha’s family. Accordingly, their interest remains concrete.
Pietuszewski and Kroupi are also on the radar
Another option is Oskar Pietuszewski. The 18-year-old is under contract with FC Porto and is considered a major talent. Bayern are said to have had the Polish national team player on their radar from a young age.
At the time, however, that interest did not lead to concrete negotiations. Through his development in Portugal, Pietuszewski has since proven that he can hold his own at a higher level. That’s why he’s now high on Munich’s list.
Rounding out the trio is Junior Kroupi. The 20-year-old plays for AFC Bournemouth and has been on Bayern’s radar in the past. Bayern’s interest in him has apparently not waned. He, too, therefore remains a possible option for the attacking wing position.
Bayern is making plans for next summer
In their search for a backup for Díaz, the Munich club seems to be focusing primarily on development potential and long-term prospects. Instead of an experienced substitute, they aim to sign young attacking players who can take on a more significant role in the medium term.
Whether a transfer of one of the three candidates will actually take place remains to be seen. However, the current situation suggests that Ngumoha is currently in the best position. The high transfer fee demanded and Liverpool’s stance could, however, complicate a move. Pietuszewski and Kroupi therefore remain interesting alternatives for FC Bayern.