Bayern Munich director insists Barcelona target’s future ‘still open’ | OneFootball

FC Barcelona have their eyes firmly set on Nico Williams as the Catalan giants have deemed his acquisition a priority this summer.

Nevertheless, the Catalans have not overlooked the importance of strengthening their defensive midfield, which remains a top priority after the club’s challenges in that area last season.

Joshua Kimmich, one of the candidates Barcelona have shortlisted, has long been admired by the Barça hierarchy. Links tying him to the club only intensified after his former manager Hansi Flick took over the helm.

Resolution to be reached after Kimmich’s vacation

With a year remaining before Kimmich’s contract expires and talk of an exit gaining traction, Bayern Munich director Maximilian Michael Eberl was asked to comment on the German’s future.

“Joshua Kimmich’s future? Of course still open with us”.

“He still has a year left on his contract. We agreed that we would talk to each other after his vacation”, Eberl told BILD via Fabrizio Romano.

Bayern Munich director Max Eberl. (Photo by MICHAELA STACHE/AFP via Getty Images)

Barcelona are bound to await his decision eagerly considering their fascination for the midfielder and eagerness to reunite him with Flick.

If Kimmich demands a departure in his meeting with Bayern Munich, the Blaugranes would be sure to acquire his signature at a discounted price as he will be a free agent in 2025 next summer.

Otherwise, Barcelona could also opt to bide their time till the next summer transfer window rolls around and the club can go down their favoured route of recruiting free agents. In fact, reports have even mentioned that the 29-year-old intends to see out his contract.

However, it is unlikely that Bayern Munich would allow one of their key players to leave on a free transfer. Therefore, it is anticipated that he will either depart this summer or sign an extension.

Given the dire need to address the defensive midfield position, Kimmich will continue to be high on Barcelona’s wishlist but for now, all they can do is watch the situation develop from afar.