Amid intense speculation about Joshua Kimmich’s future at Bayern Munich, a host of top-tier talents, including Hakan Calhanoglu, Frenkie de Jong, and Martin Zubimendi, are being touted as potential successors to the German international. As reported by Sport1.de, the Bavarian soccer behemoths are even considering bringing back the Stuttgart’s starlet, Angelo Stiller, and Manchester City veteran Ilkay Gundogan.
The rumors have surfaced following Kimmich’s reluctance to respond to contract talks. With the 30-year-old’s current contract set to expire at the end of June, it appears increasingly probable that the decade-long association between Kimmich and Bayern may come to an end this summer.
Kimmich’s versatility on the pitch, with his ability to play both at right-back and in central midfield, has made him an invaluable asset for the team. To fill his shoes, Bayern’s top brass are keen to sign a player who can mirror his profile.
Among the potential replacements, Calhanoglu, a former AC Milan and Bayer Leverkusen midfielder, is a name that’s been persistently linked with the Bavarians. Despite the 31-year-old’s current association with Inter Milan, Bayern’s interest in acquiring his services remains undeterred.
Stiller, once a product of Bayern’s youth academy, is another strong contender to take over Kimmich’s mantle. After parting ways with Bayern to join Hoffenheim in 2021, the 23-year-old later moved to Stuttgart in 2023. His impressive performances have not gone unnoticed, and a return to his old stomping ground might be on the cards.
The Bavarians are also said to be keeping a close eye on Barca’s Frenkie de Jong and Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi. Gundogan, a seasoned player with stints at Barcelona, Borussia Dortmund, and Manchester City, is also on Bayern’s radar.
As the summer transfer window approaches, the football world will keep a keen eye on Bayern’s movements. The potential departure of Kimmich, a mainstay of their midfield, will undoubtedly create a significant void. But with a host of big names on their shortlist, it’s clear that the German champions are leaving no stone unturned to ensure a smooth transition.
This comprehensive analysis of potential Kimmich replacements at Bayern Munich was first published on SempreInter.com and has been rewritten with permission. Be sure to stay tuned for more must-read football news and game-changing stories.