Bayern Munich wants to hand new deal to Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting
Goals have not been a problem for Bayern Munich this season despite the departure of Robert Lewandowski in the summer. The Bavarian club was expected to struggle in the final third since Lewandowski guaranteed at least 40 goals every season. However, other players have stepped up this season. Die Roten is averaging just over three goals per game in the Bundesliga.
Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting is the latest Bayern player to enjoy a good run of form in the final third. The 33-year-old forward has scored six goals in the last five appearances across all competitions. Choupo-Moting also has two assists to his name during this run.
The Cameroon international has primarily operated as a number nine. He becomes the focal point of the attack and link-up well with other attacking players by holding up the ball in the final third. His rich vein of form has given a terrific selection headache to Julian Nagelsmann since all forwards are performing well at the moment.
Choupo-Moting had a perfect week as he scored the second goal against Barcelona on Wednesday. He scored one goal and provided an assist for Jamal Musiala against Mainz on Saturday. While talking to Sky Sports on Saturday (via iMiaSanMia), Bayern chief Hasan Salihamidzic insisted that talks will be held with Choupo-Moting for a contract extension.
"“We’ll hold talks, nothing speaks against that. He’s someone who I think belongs here. We hope he stays here.”"
Choupo-Moting will become a free agent at the end of the season if Die Roten fails to reach an agreement with him over a new deal. The Cameroon forward is a vital player in the squad, so it is a no-brainer to give him a short-term deal.
The former PSG forward has been a very successful signing for Die Roten until now. He has scored 25 goals in 70 appearances across all competitions for Bayern in the last two seasons. Most of these appearances have been from the bench since he has been the backup for Lewandowski since arriving from PSG in 2020. (Stats courtesy: Transfermarkt)
Bayern will still go for a number nine in the next summer transfer window, but they do need quality depth in this role. Keeping Choupo-Moting will make sure that they have a hard-working player that will always deliver whenever called upon by the coach. Moreover, the experienced forward seems to be a very good presence in the dressing room.
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Apart from Choupo-Moting, Bayern is also expected to continue contract talks with Lucas Hernandez and Benjamin Pavard. Hernandez has reportedly held positive discussions, while Pavard is unsure about signing a new deal. The two defenders are crucial players for Julian Nagelsmann, so Die Roten will look to reach an agreement in the coming months.