Bayern Munich cool their interest in Bourdeaux’s Malcom

Bayern Munich have cooled their interest in signing Bordeaux’s Malcom according to Karl-Heinz Rummenigge.

Malcom has been heavily linked with a move to Bayern Munich in the past month. Bayern are actively looking for a wide player in order to execute their plans to replace the aging Franck Ribery and Arjen Robben. The veteran duo are currently set to be free agents in the summer, but there is still a chance the club signs them for another season.

While talking to Kicker, Bayern chief Karl-Heinz Rummenigge said that the speculation surrounding a potential move for Malcom is just a red herring. The German chief claimed that Bayern Munich are not in talks to sign the Brazilian. This contradicts previous reports suggesting the club had already agreed terms with the player.

Jupp Heynckes previously confirmed the club had monitored the young winger, but then went on to say they have no serious interest. Malcom also admitted last week that it would be a dream come true for him if he is able to seal a move to the German Champions. The Brazilian is eager to join a big club in the summer to continue his development.

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Malcom can play on either flank, and he was tipped to slot in on the right side for Bayern Munich. The 21-year-old is fast and full of trickery. He has been the sole shining light for a struggling Bourdeaux this season. Malcom also has a knack of scoring goals from outside the box.

Bayern Munich already have quality players in the squad that can replace Franck Ribery. Kingsley Coman has been in fine form this season. It is a huge blow for the Bavarians that the Frenchman is out of action right now due to an injury. Serge Gnabry will return to Bayern Munich in the summer, too, after a decent loan spell at Hoffenheim. The German will compete with Coman for the left wing role.

However, on the right flank, Bayern Munich genuinely lack options. Robben is still able to deliver consistent performances in that position, but the Dutchman is in the final years of his career. Thomas Muller and James Rodriguez can operate on the right side, but they are not able to provide genuine width as a winger. Therefore, a move for Malcom was making sense as the Brazilian could have developed well under the guidance of Robben.

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Rummenigge admitted that the club will hold talks with Robben and Ribery next month. The veterans are likely to be handed one last contract at the club. The Bayern chief could be bluffing about Malcom right now, as to help them in negotiations with Bourdeaux. Bayern Munich would preferably like to avoid a bidding war for the Brazilian as Arsenal and Tottenham have both also expressed interest in the winger