Journalist: Liverpool and Man City in Tug-of-War Over Midfield Star | OneFootball

Liverpool Open Talks with Bayern Munich Star: Anfield Set for Summer Shake-Up?

Liverpool and Manchester City are reportedly vying for the signature Bayern Munich midfielder Joshua Kimmich, with both clubs having already initiated talks over a potential summer transfer. This intriguing development suggests Arne Slot is wasting no time in shaping his squad for the next Premier League season.

Arne Slot’s Vision Takes Shape

Since taking over from Jurgen Klopp in May 2024, Arne Slot has exceeded expectations, steering Liverpool to the top of the Premier League with a tactical brilliance that has silenced sceptics. Despite his success, Slot is clearly looking to bolster his squad further. After securing deals for a Valencia goalkeeper and a Juventus winger—the former set to arrive this summer—Slot appears ready to take a more ambitious leap by targeting Bayern Munich’s midfield star Kimmich.

Midfield Maestro Up for Grabs

Joshua Kimmich’s impending free agency has caught the attention of Europe’s elite. TBR Football’s Graeme Bailey reports that both Liverpool and Manchester City have communicated their interest in signing the German international on a Bosman transfer. With his contract set to expire in just over four months, Bayern faces mounting pressure to either secure an extension or risk losing a player of immense calibre.

Described by Jose Mourinho in 2020 as “an absolutely phenomenal player,” the midfielder has matured into one of the best in the world. At 29, his blend of experience, leadership, and technical prowess makes him an attractive proposition for any top club.

Photo: IMAGO

Financial Hurdles in Pursuit

While Kimmich’s quality is undeniable, his hefty €375,000 (£316k) per week wage demands could pose a significant challenge for Liverpool. Unless he is prepared to accept a pay cut, it’s difficult to envisage the Reds matching his current salary, especially considering ongoing contract negotiations with their Egyptian forward, Dutch defender, and local right-back.

Clubs from Saudi Arabia, Italy, Spain, and France are also vying for his signature, adding another layer of complexity to Liverpool’s pursuit. However, if Slot can convince him of his project at Anfield, this transfer could mark a transformative moment for Liverpool’s midfield.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

While the prospect of signing Joshua Kimmich sounds thrilling, sceptical Liverpool fans might question whether this deal is realistic—or even necessary. First, his astronomical wage demands are at odds with Liverpool’s traditionally cautious financial model. With the Egyptian forward, Dutch defender, and local right-back’s contracts still up in the air, committing to such an expensive signing could destabilise wage structures and cause discontent in the dressing room.

Moreover, at 29, he isn’t exactly a long-term investment. Liverpool’s recent transfer policy has leaned towards younger, high-potential players who can be developed under the club’s philosophy. Bringing him in would be a departure from that approach and could signal a short-term mindset that doesn’t align with the club’s long-term strategy.

And then there’s the competition from Manchester City. Pep Guardiola’s relationship with the midfielder, forged during their time together at Bayern, might give City the edge. If it turns into a bidding war, Liverpool might wisely choose to step back rather than overextend financially.

In summary, while his arrival would undoubtedly add world-class quality to Liverpool’s midfield, the financial and strategic implications raise valid concerns. Only time will tell if Arne Slot can pull off this high-profile coup—or if it’s just another transfer saga destined to fizzle out.