The financial implications of the pandemic are still felt at all clubs across Europe. Bayern Munich has suffered big losses during the pandemic, which has hampered their transfer plans. In the upcoming transfer window, Die Roten will have to be efficient in handling departures as they need funds to address key areas of the squad.
Joshua Zirkzee is one of the few players that could end up leaving Bavaria. The Dutch striker has less than 18 months left on his current deal with Rekordmeister. Zirkzee is currently enjoying a very productive loan spell in Belgium with Anderlecht.
The Dutch striker has managed to contribute with 13 goals and six assists for Anderlecht across all competitions. Zirkzee is expected to attract interest from various clubs in Europe due to his outstanding performances in Belgium. (Stats courtesy: Whoscored)
Earlier this season, Zirkzee was hopeful about getting more chances at Bayern after a productive loan spell with Anderlecht. However, his tone and mindset have definitely changed about his future. The Dutch striker is now resigned to leaving Bavaria in the summer. While talking to NOS, Zirkzee insisted that it doesn’t make sense to play less next season after such a successful season with Anderlecht.
"“I don’t think it makes much sense to go back to Bayern after a season in which I play a lot. I just want to play and after this season I will see where that is best and then I will also talk to Bayern.”“We will only talk again after the season. I take my minutes here and that was my goal.”"
Zirkzee’s chances of playing regularly at Bayern are very slim if he decides to stay at the club next season. Robert Lewandowski continues to score goals for fun. Moreover, his incredible fitness record allows him to play every game. The presence of Lewandowski will make sure that Zirkzee will get opportunities from the bench.
From Bayern’s point of view, they will be better served by getting a fee for him in the summer. With no assurances of adequate playing time, Joshua Zirkzee will not sign a new deal. The Bavarian club will end up losing him for nothing in 2023, so it is better to part ways in the summer.
West Ham United is reportedly interested in signing Zirkzee in the summer, while Anderlecht is also open to making the move permanent. Die Roten will be hoping that more clubs will show interest in the forward, which will eventually help them in securing a decent transfer fee.
Want your voice heard? Join the Bayern Strikes team!
Joshua Zirkzee should also actively look to push for a move away from Bavaria. After a disappointing 2020/21 campaign at Bayern and Parma, he has managed to get back in form at Anderlecht. He needs more playing time in the next few years to get a big move, so moving away from Die Roten will be beneficial for him in the long run.