FC Bayern are deliberately refraining from making personnel improvements this winter, but that by no means means means a standstill in squad planning. Behind the scenes, Max Eberl and Christoph Freund have long been looking ahead to the transfer summer of 2026 – and have apparently defined clear priorities. Despite Munich’s sporting dominance, the offensive in particular is moving into focus
In sporting terms, there are currently hardly any arguments for an acute need for action. Vincent Kompany’s team regularly play themselves into a frenzy in the Bundesliga and dismantle their opponents with impressive consistency. The most recent 8:1 victory against VfL Wolfsburg was emblematic of the record champions‘ attacking power. And yet those responsible are convinced that selective reinforcement is necessary in order to remain competitive at the highest level in the long term
Left flank moves into focus
As reported by Sky, Bayern have firmed up their transfer plans in the attacking area, with a particular focus on the left flank. In Luis Díaz, FCB have an absolute difference-maker there, who shapes the attacking play and regularly poses a threat. However, this is precisely where those responsible see a structural weakness: the Colombian lacks any real relief
A prolonged absence of Díaz would pose considerable problems for Vincent Kompany. There are hardly any alternatives with a comparable profile and level in the current squad. This is precisely why FC Bayern would like to add depth on the left wing in the summer
Gnabry to stay – but new winger planned
Regardless of the intended contract extension with Serge Gnabry, Sky reports that an additional winger is set to be signed. The plans explicitly envisage keeping Gnabry in the squad while bringing in a new attacking player. Although the record champions have been linked with numerous names, two clear favourites are currently emerging internally
Eberl and Freund are currently looking at Yan Diomande and Said El Mala, both of whom are regarded as absolute shooting stars and fit the required profile for the left flank. Depending on availability and price in the summer, they are said to be at the top of the wish list
High transfer fees factored in
However, Bayern cannot expect a bargain with either candidate. According to reports, the sums involved are in an order of magnitude that requires careful consideration. A transfer fee of between 40 and 50 million euros is being mooted for DFB youngster Said El Mala, while Yan Diomande could be even more expensive, with RB Leipzig apparently only willing to discuss a deal worth over 60 million euros
Despite the high prices, Munich are not shying away from such an investment. Those responsible are aware that quality has its price on the international transfer market – especially in the wing positions. The aim is to secure the offensive power in the long term and at the same time to be able to react more flexibly to absences
Even if FC Bayern currently seem unstoppable, the transfer strategy for the summer of 2026 shows that they are not looking to rest on their laurels. Eberl and Freund are planning ahead – and have already clearly identified the next construction site.