Bayern locked out of Leao chase, eyes turn to Liverpool star | OneFootball

Bayern Munich’s hunt for a new left-sided attacking player is entering a decisive phase, though recent developments have forced the club to adjust its focus, according to coverage from FCBInside and Bavarian Football Works.

Rafael Leao, once considered a high-profile target to strengthen Bayern’s left wing, now appears out of reach. AC Milan’s new head coach, Massimiliano Allegri, used his first press conference to rule out any summer move for the Portuguese international. “Rafa can achieve great things next season,” Allegri stated, expressing a clear intention to keep Leao central to his plans: “I have spoken with him and believe all the conditions are there for a successful partnership.” This stance was echoed by Milan’s sporting director Igli Tare, who described Leao as “fundamental” for the club’s ambitions. These public declarations effectively end speculation about a transfer to Munich this window.

Attention now turns to Liverpool’s Luis Diaz, with German outlets Bild and Sky Germany reporting that Bayern have at least made initial contact regarding his availability. However, the situation remains fluid. Bavarian Football Works points out that Liverpool have shown no strong inclination to sell, and Diaz himself is said to be more interested in a potential move to Barcelona if an exit does materialize.

To complicate matters further, conflicting accounts exist about just how advanced Bayern’s approach is. While some reports hint at groundwork being laid on personal terms, there is no evidence at this stage of negotiations between the clubs, and Liverpool’s internal position remains a key obstacle.

The need for a left-sided attacker has become increasingly urgent after alternative targets slipped away. Nico Williams was previously on Bayern’s list, but with his recent contract extension at Athletic Club, a deal is now unfeasible. Paris Saint-Germain’s Bradley Barcola was also considered before PSG blocked a move. These setbacks mean Bayern must consider a wider range of options as the transfer window progresses, but the left wing remains a priority given injuries and squad changes.

A recent injury to Jamal Musiala and persistent links to other top talents, such as Real Madrid’s Rodrygo, only add to the complexity of Bayern’s summer window. Meanwhile, former honorary president Uli Hoeneß has cautioned publicly against certain expensive deals, a sentiment that may influence Bayern’s final decisions.

As things stand, Bayern Munich’s dream of luring Leao away from Milan is effectively over; instead, the club’s transfer strategy is focused on assessing the feasibility of Diaz and scanning the market for alternative solutions to inject new dynamism on the flanks.

(Sources: FCBInside, Bavarian Football Works)

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