MUNICH — Reports emerging from the German media indicate that Bayern Munich has rescinded the contract extension previously extended to midfielder Joshua Kimmich, with his current contract set to expire at the end of this season.
Kicker magazine recently confirmed a similar report from Bild, stating that a decision was reached during Bayern’s supervisory board meeting on Monday to pull back the offer, largely due to Kimmich’s reluctance in sealing the deal.
At 30 years old, Kimmich has been a stalwart for Bayern, featuring in over 400 matches since his 2015 transfer from Leipzig at the age of 20. It’s understood he presently earns approximately 20 million euros annually at the prestigious Bavarian club. The now-withdrawn contract offer included a slight increase in his salary.
Bayern’s sports board member, Max Eberl, had earlier conveyed optimism about the contract discussions while speaking to broadcaster Sky this month. This came after Bayern secured new contracts with players Jamal Musiala, Alphonso Davies, and Manuel Neuer.
“We’ve methodically approached our negotiations, having had very constructive discussions with Joshua,” Eberl remarked, adding that the club transparently shared their vision through the recently finalized extensions, expressing hope to finally settle Kimmich’s situation.
In recent events, Kimmich had been a mainstay on the field for Bayern across all current competitions until an untimely tendon injury forced him off during the match against Eintracht Frankfurt last weekend. Consequently, he is anticipated to miss Friday’s clash against Stuttgart, with Bayern optimistic about his return in time for the Champions League last-16 match against Bayer Leverkusen on Wednesday.
The midfielder could potentially exit Bayern at the close of this season if a new agreement is not reached. There is speculation of a possible move to Barcelona, where ex-Bayern coach Hansi Flick now manages, though the financially strapped Spanish club would still need to accommodate his salary demands.
