Goalkeeping star spills the beans: „Was on the verge of a Bayern switch“ | OneFootball

Yassine Bounou provides exciting insights into the 2023 summer transfer window and talks about a potential move to FC Bayern. The Moroccan international goalkeeper explains why the deal didn’t go through in the end.

The name Yassine Bounou was actually a concrete topic at FC Bayern in the summer of 2023. At that time, Munich were looking for a solution in goal as the departure of Yann Sommer to Inter Milan loomed. During this phase, the Moroccan international became the focus of those responsible.

The 34-year-old now confirms how close a transfer really was. In an interview with Andalusian Canal Sur Radio , he said: „I was on the verge of playing for Bayern when I wanted to leave Sevilla. I really thought it would happen, but it was very delayed and I had to make a decision.“

The keeper went on to explain the background to the failed deal. Bayern had been in contact with Sevilla FC, but their ideas differed. While Munich apparently preferred a loan, Sevilla insisted on a permanent sale.

Bayern hesitated – Bounou decided otherwise

photo: IMAGO

These differing approaches ultimately led to the transfer falling through. Bounou initially waited for a decision from Munich, but then had to act. „Bayern were in contact with Sevilla, but they asked me to wait,“ he explained in retrospect.

At the same time, another opportunity arose. An offer from Saudi Arabia brought movement into the situation. „At that moment, it was difficult for any other club to invest in someone like me, who is 32 years old. At that point, I waited, then the offer from Al-Hilal came,“ said the goalkeeper.

The move to Al-Hilal finally became a reality. He left Sevilla for a transfer fee of over €20 million and started a new chapter, where he has won several titles in recent years and established himself as a permanent fixture.

His strong performances had already begun before that. Bounou played his way into the limelight with Morocco at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar and was one of the tournament’s outstanding goalkeepers. It was precisely at this stage that he became particularly interesting for FC Bayern.