Bayern Munich eyes Croatian defender with 90 million euro price tag
Football circles are buzzing after Lothar Matthäus, Bayern Munich’s legendary figure, hinted at a potential return of a Bundesliga star to the Bavarian giants. The name on everyone’s lips? Josko Gvardiol, the 24-year-old Croatian defender currently plying his trade at Manchester City. Matthäus disclosed that Bayern officials had already initiated concrete discussions regarding a possible move, sparking intense speculation about the club’s ambitions for the upcoming transfer window.
Gvardiol’s Bundesliga legacy and City’s dilemma
Gvardiol first made waves in the Bundesliga with RB Leipzig, where he established himself as one of Europe’s most promising defenders between 2021 and 2023. His 87 appearances for Leipzig showcased his defensive prowess, and Manchester City moved swiftly to secure his services in 2023 for a reported €90 million. Since then, Gvardiol has been a regular starter at City, though a recent tibia fracture kept him sidelined from January to May. His return to action this week, featuring in a 3-0 victory over Crystal Palace, has only added to his appeal.
At Bayern, Gvardiol would face stiff competition in the central defense department. With Jonathan Tah and Dayot Upamecano forming a formidable duo, the Croatian defender might find himself in the role of a backup initially. However, the potential departure of Min-jae Kim—currently the third-choice center-back and rumored to be on his way out—could free up a spot. Matthäus also highlighted Gvardiol’s versatility, noting his ability to play as a left-back, adding further value to his profile.
Bayern’s transfer ambitions amid squad dynamics
The Bavarian club is no stranger to high-profile transfers, and Gvardiol’s profile fits their long-term strategy. The defender’s contract with City runs until 2028, which could drive up the transfer fee. Yet, Bayern’s financial muscle and Gvardiol’s ambition to secure a starting role make this a compelling scenario. Matthäus emphasized that Bayern’s interest is not just speculative, stating, “I’ve seen a player and heard that Bayern has already taken the first steps.”
Key updates in Bayern Munich’s squad
Christoph Freund clears the air on Alexander Nübel
Club sporting director Christoph Freund has put to rest any doubts about Alexander Nübel’s future at Bayern Munich. Speaking after the club’s 5-1 thrashing of 1. FC Cologne on the final day of the Bundesliga season, Freund confirmed that Nübel would not be part of the team’s plans moving forward. “We’ve had discussions with his representatives, and Alex is aware of our plans,” Freund stated. With Manuel Neuer, Sven Ulreich, and Jonas Urbig set to form the goalkeeper trio next season, Nübel’s return to Bayern seems unlikely. The 29-year-old, who joined the club in 2020 from Schalke 04, has made only four appearances for Bayern and has spent the last two seasons on loan at Monaco and Stuttgart.
Harry Kane rewrites Bundesliga history
Meanwhile, Bayern’s star striker Harry Kane has etched his name into Bundesliga folklore once again. The English international finished the 2025-26 season as the league’s top scorer with 36 goals, becoming the first player in history to achieve this feat in each of his first three seasons in Germany. Kane, who arrived at Bayern in 2023 from Tottenham Hotspur, also became the only player to surpass 25 goals in each of his first three Bundesliga campaigns. His latest milestone came with a hat-trick in the 5-1 win over Cologne, pushing his tally to 36 goals for the season.
Bayern Munich’s upcoming fixtures
As the summer transfer window approaches, Bayern Munich’s schedule includes key matches that could influence their squad decisions. The club will face VfB Stuttgart in the German Cup final on May 23, followed by a series of pre-season friendlies starting on July 25 against SV Wehen Wiesbaden. The international tour includes matches against Jeju SK FC in South Korea on August 4 and Aston Villa in England on August 7. These fixtures will provide a glimpse into Bayern’s readiness for the new season and any potential tactical adjustments.
