A recent report from L’Equipe claims Bayern Munich could beat Liverpool to signing Lyon star Nabik Fekir.
Bayern Munich could have a shock move lined up for Olympique Lyon star Nabil Fekir. L’Equipe reports (via SportBild) that the Bavarians could swoop in ahead of Liverpool to sign the Frenchman.
SportBild speculates that Bayern are interested in signing Fekir as a replacement for Thiago, who is rumored to be unsettled in Munich and could be sold this summer.
While the Ligue 1 star would offer much for the club, he’s not exactly a like-for-like replacement for Thiago Alcantara. Fekir is much more of an attacking midfielder or second striker, capable even of playing as a winger or even a center-forward.
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However, Fekir would still be an excellent addition to the squad for the right price. His versatility and undeniable quality in attack could be a huge asset to Niko Kovac next season.
The Croatian has promised to provide a more dynamic approach to his tactics at the club, and Fekir would be a great signing to help him do just that. At 24-years-old, Fekir would bring a fine balance of experience and youth. He would represent an immediate improvement to the squad, while also providing promise for the future.
He was one of the absolute best players in Ligue 1 this past season, having a breakout campaign with Lyon as captain of the squad. He scored 18 goals and assisted eight more across 30 appearances at the club, leading his club to a third-placed finish and guaranteeing them Champions League play next season.
Although he’s been heavily linked with a move to Liverpool, Fekir recently cooled rumors linking him with the Champions League runners-up. Bayern have a strong French contingent in Franck Ribery, Kingsley Coman and Fekir’s former teammate Corentin Tolisso. This could be instrumental in luring him to Bavaria.
There is, of course, still the issue of his pricetag. But Bayern worked with Lyon last summer to sign Coco Tolisso. Perhaps the good relationship between the two clubs could help them reach a deal that satisfies both parties.
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Uli Hoeness recently commented that Bayern have no plans to make any star signings this summer. But similar statements were made by the club last summer before their shocking move for James Rodriguez. The reported fee of around €60 million is a very feasible amount for Bayern Munich, especially if the club is seriously considering an overhaul as suggested in recent reports.