Bayern Munich: Hofmann refuses to rule out transfer next summer

The final few weeks of the summer transfer window saw Bayern Munich linked with numerous players. The German Champions were expected to be busy in terms of arrivals and departures, but they eventually had to settle with the signing of Marcel Sabitzer from RB Leipzig.

Along with Sabitzer, Gladbach’s Jonas Hofmann was also linked with a move to Bavaria. The versatile German wide player has closely worked with Julian Nagelsmann in the past, and Die Roten was looking for a winger, so the reports made sense.

Apart from playing on the flanks, Hofmann can also play as a wing-back or right-back if needed. Nagelsmann is known for using three at the back, so Hofmann would have been a smart pickup, but a move never materialized during the window.

However, there was a lot of substance in reports linking Hofmann to Bavaria. While talking to Bild this week, Hofmann confirmed that talks were held with Bayern, but the transfer didn’t materialize. The German international has refused to rule out a move away from Gladbach next summer.

"“There were a few conversations with Bayern. And of course, I talk to Julian Nagelsmann when we see each other, since we have known each other for 15 years together in the youth teams of Hoffenheim. But the talks were never so advanced to become concrete”“I feel very comfortable in Gladbach. But as I’ve often emphasized, I’m a guy who also likes to take on new challenges and is open to new things. I definitely want to play another four or five years if my body allows it.”"

It remains to be seen whether Die Roten will return for Hofmann next summer. For now, Josip Stanisic is the backup right-back to Benjamin Pavard after he enjoyed a good pre-season and start to the new campaign. Bouna Sarr also remains an option in this position at least until January. The French full-back is finding it hard to get playing time under Nagelsmann, so it does look like his days in Bavaria are numbered.

In the wide positions, Bayern may need to go big next summer since Kingsley Coman is not close to signing a new deal. The German club may look for a younger winger than signing an experienced winger like Hofmann. Die Roten has already been linked with a move for Red Bull Salzburg forward Karim Adeyemi.

However, the versatility of Hofmann makes him a very attractive option in the transfer market. His contract at Borussia Monchengladbach will come to an end in 2023, so Gladbach might be open to listening offers for him if he doesn’t sign a new contract.

Earlier in the summer, Julian Nagelsmann had insisted that he admires versatile players, so he may push for a move for Hofmann. As long as the price is right and fringe players are offloaded next summer, signing Hofmann will definitely have an overall positive impact on the pitch for Rekordmeister.