The transfer rumours surrounding Leon Goretzka continue to gather momentum. After Atlético Madrid were recently considered to be a concrete interested party, Tottenham Hotspur have now also entered the poker game for the FC Bayern midfielder. The coming hours could be decisive for the 30-year-old
As transfer insider Matteo Moretto reports, Tottenham Hotspur approached FC Bayern officials on Wednesday regarding Leon Goretzka. It is currently unclear whether the Munich club will agree to a departure during the current winter transfer window. What is clear, however, is that a decision is expected behind the scenes in the near future
According to information from Sky, Atlético Madrid and their sporting management in particular are pressing ahead with their efforts to sign Goretzka. Marca reports that the Spaniards have already made an offer for Goretzka. Coach Diego Simeone sees the German international as his preferred solution to fill the gap in central midfield following the departure of Conor Gallagher. According to the report, talks between Goretzka and the Rojiblancos‘ management have recently resumed, with both an immediate move in the winter and a stay at FC Bayern until the summer being discussed
It is no coincidence that interest from top international clubs is intensifying. Goretzka’s contract in Munich expires in the summer, which makes him particularly attractive to many clubs. While Atlético and Tottenham are apparently prepared to pay a transfer fee as early as January, AC Milan are also being touted as potential buyers, albeit with a view to a free transfer in the summer
Goretzka speaks openly about his departure and personal development
What is particularly remarkable is how open Goretzka has recently been about his future. The midfielder left no doubt that leaving Munich is a realistic scenario for him. „It’s an option, of course,“ said Goretzka with regard to a possible move, adding: „I think it would be exciting to go abroad later in my career.“
The 30-year-old is not only concerned with sporting aspects. Personal considerations also play a role. „I know I’m in a comfort zone in Munich,“ explained Goretzka and continued: „A move abroad would also be a step for my personal development. Getting to know something new would also enrich my life.“ These statements clearly show that a potential transfer would be well thought out and not the result of a knee-jerk reaction
Eberl shows understanding – limited sporting prospects
From a sporting perspective, Goretzka’s situation at FC Bayern is currently difficult. Under Vincent Kompany, the record champions are increasingly relying on other profiles in central midfield. Joshua Kimmich and Aleksandar Pavlovic are set, and Tom Bischof is also expected to take on a larger role in the future. This means that Goretzka is usually only left with a supporting role
After the Champions League win in Eindhoven, sporting director Max Eberl was suitably understanding when asked about the international’s thoughts of moving on. „Yes, that’s legitimate,“ explained Eberl, referring to the contractual situation: „His contract expires in the summer. Accordingly, you also have to think about the future in his place.“
Whether a winter transfer actually takes place, however, depends on several factors. In addition to Goretzka’s decision, Vincent Kompany and the club management must also agree to a solution. An early departure could still bring FC Bayern a transfer fee, but would also affect the width of the squad in a decisive phase of the season.