Bayern Munich defender Joshua Kimmich linked with Barcelona
According to Spanish sources, Bayern Munich right-back Joshua Kimmich has emerged as a transfer target for FC Barcelona.
The transfer rumors are gathering pace as all the top clubs have begun making moves for their respective summer transfer targets. Bayern Munich could be one of the most active clubs in Europe as they are set to rebuild their aging squad with younger players.
There could be some high profile departures at Bayern this window. Arjen Robben, Franck Ribery and Rafinha have already been released. The Bundesliga champions have also confirmed the departure of James Rodriguez after his two-year loan spell at the club has come to its conclusion. Jerome Boateng, meanwhile, has already been advised to leave the club as he has fallen out of favor under Niko Kovac.
Apart from the above-mentioned players, Renato Sanches is the only Bayern player who could leave the club in the next couple of months, but there will no doubt be some interest from other top clubs in some of the key players in the squad. Star right-back Joshua Kimmich is one player whose immense talent is sure to attract attention.
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According to Spanish newspaper Sport (via Calciomercato), Kimmich is one of a few right-backs Barcelona are considering to replace Nelson Semedo. The Portuguese defender is heavily linked with a move away from Los Blaugranas this summer. Their interest in Kimmich is just tentative and there is no suggestion that Barca have made a bit for the player, though.
Kimmich has become a key player for Bayern since joining the club from RB Leipzig in 2015. Pep Guardiola used him in numerous positions, including center-back. After the Spaniard’s departure, Kimmich was used as a midfielder under Carlo Ancelotti, but he struggled to get adequate game time. Philipp Lahm’s retirement paved a path for Kimmich to become a regular in the squad.
The German international is now an undisputed starter under Kovac. He provides a new dimension in the final third with his pinpoint crossing and passing from out wide. Kimmich will have proper competition next season as Benjamin Pavard arrives from VfB Stuttgart, but he should still be a guaranteed starter in the big matches. The French defender has primarily operated as a center-back for Stuttgart but executes the duties of right-back for the France national team.
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Kovac is likely to use both these young players in this position as there are numerous options in central defense. The Bavarians wouldn’t even consider the craziest offers from Barcelona for the player. Bayern are building a squad to compete for years on all fronts, and Kimmich will remain one of the most pivotal components of the team.