Last week, Bayern Munich were linked to Newcastle United outside back Lewis Hall. Sport Bild journalist Christian Falk indicated he hadn’t heard much about that pursuit. But he did offer some insight on the left back position and a really odd nugget.
Bayern might be “hoping” for a huge offer from Saudi Arabia for Alphonso Davies.
“To be honest, Lewis Hall’s name is not one I’ve heard yet in connection with Bayern Munich. What I can say is that it’s true Bayern Munich are searching for left backs. As I’ve mentioned already with Bisseck, however, it’s dependent on the club selling a player, in this case, it would be Hiroki Ito. The Japanese defender has a price tag of €20m.
“FC Bayern are still hoping to get a really huge offer from Saudi Arabia for Alphonso Davies. Then they’d have to think about that as well! But if they can’t sell Davies or Ito, they won’t be bringing in another player, which would mean bad news for Lewis Hall, and the same for Joško Gvardiol (who can play at left back and centre back). I think Bayern are testing the market to see if they can make something happen, but they have to sell a defender first.”
In addition, Bayern were also linked to Eintracht Frankfurt left back and Germany international Nathaniel Brown.
Is Bayern really looking to offload Davies? Reports have indicated the Bavarians are unsure they can continue to trust him because of his injuries. But it does seem way too early to cut him loose, doesn’t it?
Barca turning attention to Kane?
According to ESPN, Bayern would be open to selling Harry Kane for €80m and Barcelona might be ready to make it happen.
“Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane is emerging as a viable alternative for Barcelona if a move for Atlético Madrid’s Julián Álvarez falls through, as reported by Sport. A €65m release clause in the England international’s contract has run out, but Bayern would be open to starting negotiations at €80m. The 32 year old would reportedly be interested in a move to Camp Nou and there have been inquiries with his representatives after Robert Lewandowski left as a free agent this summer.”
Silly season is in full effect.
Bayern have shown no signs of wanting to sell Kane, whose contract runs through the end of next season. But there has been speculation about the Englishman’s lack of action on signing an extension.
If you really want to dive deep into a tin foil hat theory, you could pitch the idea that Kane is pushing off contract talks in hopes of trying to make a move to Barcelona. But that would be some deep conspiracy talk.
Gvardiol comments on future
Manchester City defender Joško Gvardiol was recently asked about his future and indicated there wasn’t much on his mind.
“There are all kinds of stories coming from everywhere. It’s hard to talk about it now. I have everything I need at City. Before the injury I was playing every match, after the World Cup we’ll see what happens.”
Because what is dead may never die, Sam Lee of The Athletic is reporting that Bayern still have interest in Gvardiol.
Bayern missed out on Anthony Gordon and have reportedly walked away from the table on Kennet Eichhorn. Could the club be consolidating resources to take a big run at Gvardiol? Or will he also be determined to cost too much?
The bottom line
Davies to Saudi? Kane to Barcelona? Gvardiol to Bayern?
Three rumours. Three massive potential moves. Three very different outcomes.
Bayern need to sell before they can buy. Davies is the biggest asset. Kane is the biggest name. Gvardiol is the biggest target.
The summer window is long. The speculation is just getting started.
One thing is certain: Bayern’s squad will look very different by September. Whether that’s because of departures, arrivals or both remains to be seen.
