Musiala blow sparks Bayern transfer chaos | OneFootball

Bayern Munich’s plans for offensive reinforcements have shifted rapidly following Jamal Musiala’s long-term injury, as several candidates emerge but few clear solutions materialise. According to FCBInside and Bavarian Football Works, the club’s transfer strategy, already challenged by failed approaches and limited availability of top talent, has entered a new phase of urgency.

Musiala, seen as the creative centrepiece for the coming season after his contract renewal, suffered a fractured fibula and dislocated ankle in a collision with PSG goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma during the Club World Cup. Former Bayern defender Holger Badstuber labelled his absence a “major setback” and warned in his FCBInside column that Musiala’s injury transforms the club’s summer plans: “This transfer window will not go as intended,” he stated, calling for Bayern’s leaders to demonstrate flexibility and decisiveness.

Nick Woltemade, initially targeted for a future role post-Harry Kane, had been the focus of a buy-and-loan-back option from VfB Stuttgart, but Musiala’s injury prompted Bayern to accelerate their search for immediate impact. Negotiations for Woltemade remain complicated, as Stuttgart are reluctant sellers and no formal bid has been tabled, per FCBInside. Other targets, such as Michael Olise, are expected to shoulder a heavier load internally, but doubts persist over whether in-house solutions are sufficient.

On the flanks, attention has turned increasingly to Liverpool winger Luis Díaz after alternatives like Nico Williams and Bradley Barcola became unavailable. Multiple sources, including BILD and FCBInside, report that Díaz has emerged as Bayern’s top target for the left wing, with club insiders seeing him as a “king transfer” for the summer. Diaz himself confirmed at a recent event: “We are in negotiations – we’re talking with Liverpool and with anyone who is interested.” Competition is fierce, with Barcelona also in contact; concerns over Barça’s registration issues and Liverpool’s asking price—thought to be around €80 million—complicate matters. Ex-Bayern striker Adolfo Valencia weighed in publicly, claiming Díaz is “made for this club,” citing both his temperament and experience.

Bayern have explored further options, renewing interest in RB Leipzig’s Xavi Simons. According to The Athletic via Bavarian Football Works, Bayern have enquired with Leipzig about Simons, who has notified his club of his intention to leave. Despite joining Leipzig permanently from PSG for €50 million in January, no negotiations with Bayern are underway. Simons’ versatility—comfortable in central or wide attacking roles—makes him a logical potential solution with squad depth now a concern following Leroy Sané’s exit and Serge Gnabry’s uncertain future. However, Simons has faced questions about his attitude and willingness to accept feedback, and his price is expected to be high.

Chelsea’s Christopher Nkunku is another name in the mix, with Italian outlet Di Marzio noting Inter Milan’s parallel interest. Financial pressures at Chelsea mean the forward, previously valued at €70 million, could be available for closer to €40 million. Bayern’s sporting director Max Eberl is well acquainted with Nkunku from their Leipzig days, which could facilitate talks, but any deal is expected to be permanent.

Bayern are also considering external offers for squad players. Bryan Zaragoza, out of Kompany’s plans, could depart if the club’s valuation is met amid interest from Olympiacos and La Liga teams. Meanwhile, Jadon Sancho of Manchester United has been mentioned as a possible left-sided option; competition from Juventus, who made a formal proposal, means the situation remains fluid.

As Bayern’s summer unfolds, transfer activity is marked by necessity rather than long-term strategy—forced by injury and a challenging market—leaving the club searching for the right creative spark as the Bundesliga season approaches.

(Sources: FCBInside, Bavarian Football Works, The Athletic, BILD)