FC Bayern is on the verge of signing Ismael Saibari. New details about the transfer fee have now emerged—and from Munich’s perspective, they appear to be significantly better than initially expected.
Ismael Saibari’s move to FC Bayern is in the final stages. He has already successfully passed his physical, the contract is ready to be signed, and the official announcement is reportedly just a matter of time.
While there had recently been talk of a total package worth around 55 million euros, a different picture is now emerging.
As Sky reports, Bayern’s sporting director Max Eberl has managed to keep the guaranteed transfer fee for the Moroccan international below the 50 million euro mark.
According to the report, the fixed amount is below this threshold. Only through bonus payments could the total amount rise to a maximum of 52 million euros.
For Munich, this would be a remarkable negotiating achievement, given that PSV Eindhoven is said to have had significantly higher expectations at the start of the talks.
Eberl apparently pushed the transfer fee down significantly
Negotiations between the two clubs had dragged on for several weeks. At one point, it was even reported that the Dutch club had demanded more than 60 million euros for their star forward.
In the end, however, Eberl appears to have negotiated a significantly more favorable deal.
Just a few days ago, Dutch media had reported a fixed transfer fee of 50 million euros plus an additional five million euros in bonus payments. The figures now cited by Sky are noticeably lower.
This would mean the total cost for the record champions would be lower than initially assumed.
Saibari signs through 2031
The rest of the contract details, however, remain unchanged.
The 25-year-old will sign a long-term contract with FC Bayern running through 2031. Saibari already underwent his medical examination during the ongoing World Cup at the Moroccan national team’s training camp in the U.S.
On the field, the attacking player is coming to Munich with a lot of momentum. At the World Cup, he has already scored goals against Brazil and Scotland, confirming his strong form from last season.
Vincent Kompany has been considered a strong advocate for the transfer for months. The Bayern coach is said to have personally lobbied hard for Saibari and played a key role in the move during several discussions.
With his versatility in attacking midfield and across various attacking positions, Saibari is expected to play a key role in Bayern’s play going forward.
Although an official announcement has yet to be made, the latest information seems to confirm that the deal will likely cost FC Bayern less than had long been assumed.