Bayern’s transfer gamble: big moves, bigger questions | OneFootball

Bayern Munich’s transfer window has reached a crucial stage, with speculation and negotiations swirling around key incomings and outgoings. According to Bavarian Football Works and FCBInside, the club’s ambitious efforts to reshape its squad have prompted both interest from and approaches to multiple European rivals.

One of the headline issues revolves around João Palhinha. After just one season in Munich, the Portuguese midfielder could be set for a return to England, as Arsenal are reportedly in serious discussions to bring him to the Emirates. As reported by Bild and Metro, Palhinha is high on Arsenal’s shortlist, and while concrete numbers have been discussed between clubs, no agreement is imminent. Bayern, focused on potential acquisitions, might be open to moves for Palhinha and others, including Kim Min-jae, Sacha Boey, and Daniel Peretz, but firm action remains pending.

The search for reinforcements continues, particularly on the left wing after Leroy Sané’s free transfer departure to Galatasaray. The focus is heavily on Liverpool’s Luis Díaz, with Bayern having already seen an initial €70 million-plus bid rejected. According to Rousing the Kop and FCBInside, Liverpool view Díaz as a key player and, while offers above £70 million will be considered, bids from Bayern or Barcelona would need to exceed what Liverpool might accept from Saudi clubs. Statistical comparisons from FCBInside indicate signing Díaz may carry sporting and financial risk, as Sané outperformed him in most key metrics last season, including goals per 90 (0.61 vs 0.49) and combined expected goals and assists (0.90 vs 0.62).

Should the Díaz move falter, attention could pivot to Rodrygo. FCBInside reports Bayern have weighed a record move for the Real Madrid winger after difficulties in negotiations for Díaz, although the club is also monitoring costs carefully. Other left-sided targets, such as Nick Woltemade, have proven challenging to secure after rebuffed offers to Stuttgart, as noted by Bavarian Football Works.

On the outgoing side, Kingsley Coman is attracting interest from Fenerbahçe. According to Goal, José Mourinho has approved an attempt to sign the French winger on loan with an option to buy. However, Coman’s lengthy injury history and salary demands present significant obstacles for any prospective deal.

Within the squad, young left-back Adam Aznou—previously linked with Getafe—will remain with Bayern for now, reports FCBInside. The club’s hierarchy expects him to take advantage of increased opportunities while Davies and Ito are sidelined, but is open to a move if either party pushes for it.

Away from the pitch, Bayern have confirmed a long-term partnership with EA Sports, marking a return to the EA Sports FC video game series with full licensing, including the Allianz Arena and official club branding.

With internal debates ongoing about transfer costs and sporting priorities, and with external interest in several key players, Bayern Munich’s summer market appears far from settled as they seek to balance immediate squad needs with long-term strategy.

(Sources: Bavarian Football Works, FCBInside, Rousing the Kop, Metro, Goal)