In the summer of 2027, a new era between the posts could begin at FC Bayern. Both Manuel Neuer and Sven Ulreich’s contracts are set to expire. If the experienced goalkeeping duo retires as expected, the Munich club will have to completely rebuild its goalkeeping staff.
The number one goalkeeper for the future has already been decided: According to current plans, Jonas Urbig is set to take over from Neuer. The 23-year-old is already getting regular playing time and recently made a strong case for himself with two appearances for the German national team.
It remains to be seen, however, who will take on the role of number two behind Urbig in the future. Bayern is considering numerous candidates—and now another prominent name appears to be joining the list.
Bayern is considering Nick Pope
According to information from Football Insider, Nick Pope is also among the candidates being considered by the German record champions. The English goalkeeper is under contract with Newcastle United, though his contract expires in the summer of 2027.
This would mean Pope fits the profile the Munich club is seeking exactly. Bayern wants to sign a goalkeeper with as much experience as possible who can accept the role as Urbig’s backup and, ideally, comes at no or only a minimal transfer fee.
As things stand, Pope would be available on a free transfer next summer. The 34-year-old moved from FC Burnley to Newcastle in 2022 and brings a wealth of Premier League experience.
This season, however, the Englishman is no longer playing a key role for the Magpies. A move to Munich could therefore present him with a new challenge toward the end of his career.
No concrete talks between Bayern and Pope have been reported so far. For now, his name simply adds to the already extensive list of potential candidates.
Bayern first wants clarity regarding Neuer and Ulreich
In addition to Pope, Oliver Baumann, Bernd Leno, and Finn Dahmen, among others, have recently been linked with FC Bayern. Kevin Trapp, Marvin Schwäbe, Frederik Rönnow, Lukas Hradecky, and Koen Casteels are also reportedly on Munich’s radar.
Before Bayern intensifies its search, however, the club first needs to clarify the future of Neuer and Ulreich. Talks with both veterans are planned for the winter.
A final decision has not yet been made. However, there are strong indications—particularly in Neuer’s case—that he will retire this summer. Even before his most recent contract extension, the Bayern captain had already given serious thought to ending his career.
It is therefore crucial for club officials to be prepared. Should Neuer indeed retire, Urbig is set to become the new number one. Behind him, Bayern wants to bring in an experienced and reliable goalkeeper who accepts the new hierarchy.
Pope could fit this profile. However, Munich’s search for a goalkeeper is still in its early stages—and given the numerous names on the list, the final decision is likely to take some time.