It’s not just new players who could arrive at FC Bayern this summer – departures are also on the agenda, with one name surprisingly coming to the fore: Hiroki Ito
As BILD’s head of soccer Christian Falk reports, the Japanese international is one of the record champions‘ potential sales candidates, and the Munich club are certainly open to talks should a concrete offer for the central defender be received
A transfer could be particularly interesting financially. Bayern signed Ito from VfB Stuttgart in the summer of 2024 for around 23.5 million euros. A sale would only be an option if a prospective buyer offered significantly more – a transfer surplus is the clear goal
Premier League as a possible driver
Particularly exciting: interest from the financially strong Premier League could bring movement into the personnel issue. English clubs are known for paying high transfer fees – exactly the scenario that could give Bayern pause for thought
In this case, there would obviously be no immediate veto from Munich, who would instead be prepared to hold talks and explore the options
In sporting terms, Ito basically has everything it takes to make a name for himself at FC Bayern, although his development in Munich was repeatedly hampered by injuries
A broken metatarsal and a torn muscle fibre have kept the 26-year-old out for long periods this season and he has never really got into a rhythm. He has only played 27 competitive matches for FCB so far
Competition is crucial
A possible departure is also closely linked to the personnel situation in defence. With Dayot Upamecano and Jonathan Tah, the regular duo is currently established. Behind them, several players are fighting for playing time
Min-jae Kim in particular plays an important role in the considerations of the Bayern bosses. If the South Korean seeks a transfer, the situation would automatically change. If Kim stays, however, an Ito departure could be easier for the squad to compensate for
Once again, Munich are pursuing a pragmatic approach to squad planning. Players are not always unsellable – the decisive factor is the overall package of sporting benefits and economic prospects.