„Regular player salary“: Laimer extension is not a foregone conclusion for Bayern | OneFootball

The next big contract poker is about to begin at FC Bayern – and it is likely to be more complicated than many expected

Konrad Laimer, one of the most reliable and most used professionals this season, is demanding significantly more appreciation in the ongoing talks and a financial adjustment that corresponds to his sporting role. As Christian Falk and Tobi Altschäffl report in the BILD podcast„Bayern-Insider“, the situation is even more difficult than the tricky extension of Serge Gnabry once was

Laimer came to Munich on a free transfer in the summer of 2023 – a transfer that was considered a real bargain from the record champions‘ point of view. But it is precisely this circumstance that is now shaping the contract talks, because an inconspicuous new signing has become a regular player who bears responsibility week in, week out, is extremely versatile in terms of tactics and has been one of the most consistent players this season.

Altschäffl describes the development aptly: „Actually a bargain. And now he has delivered. And now, of course, he also wants a bit of recognition, appreciation.“ Laimer has long seen himself in a role that should be visibly rewarded in terms of salary.

Falk adds a crucial aspect: Laimer is represented by the same agency as Serge Gnabry. It knows Bayern’s internal salary structure down to the last detail – an advantage for the Austrian, who is clearly making conscious use of his negotiating position. Falk formulates his position as follows: „I came to FC Bayern a bit under the radar, but have now asserted myself, am a regular player. And now I would also like a regular player’s salary.“

The last big contract – and high expectations

photo: IMAGO

At the age of 28, Laimer is facing what could be the last big contract of his career. It is therefore clear to the midfielder that this contract must be a significant financial leap. Altschäffl emphasizes: „The contract he signs… will be his last big one. And he wants to make a decent jump in salary.“

A minimalist adjustment will therefore not be enough. „Half a million… won’t be enough. He wants to see significantly more money,“ Altschäffl continues. Laimer has delivered in sporting terms – and now expects Bayern to clearly recognise his development.

According to BILD, the ÖFB footballer currently earns just under nine million euros a year from the record champions.

Bayern want to extend – but the salary structure sets limits

Despite all the challenges, both insiders agree that talks are unlikely to break down. Laimer feels at home in Munich, enjoys working with Vincent Kompany and is firmly on the coach’s radar in sporting terms. The club also has long-term plans for him. His versatility – six, eight, right and left wing – makes him one of the record champions‘ most valuable squad players.

But it is equally clear that the extension will not be a foregone conclusion. FC Bayern must carefully weigh up how far they can go financially without causing internal tensions. At the same time, the club can hardly afford to do without a player who can play a key role in almost any system.

In the end, there is much to suggest that Bayern and Laimer will come together, but it will be a deal that requires patience and tact – and will be significantly more expensive than was foreseeable just a few months ago.