Along with welcoming some great players to the squad this summer, Bayern Munich also had to part ways with the experienced players in the squad. Benjamin Pavard became the latest player to leave Bayern in the current summer transfer window. The French defender completed a move to Inter Milan on Wednesday by signing a five-year deal.
Bayern had agreed a deal with Inter Milan for Pavard last week. The German club will receive a fixed fee of €30 million with €2 million in add-ons for the French defender. However, the lack of quality replacements had delayed Pavard’s move to Inter.
Benjamin Pavard made 163 appearances for Bayern since arriving from VfB Stuttgart four years ago. The French defender managed to score 12 goals and provide 12 assists during his time at Die Roten. He is leaving for a very similar fee that Rekordmeister paid Stuttgart in 2019. (Stats courtesy: Transfermarkt)
The French international’s biggest strength was consistency, as he dropped at least 7/10 performance every weekend. Moreover, he was able to provide quality in two positions- center-back and right-back. It was no surprise that every head coach at Bayern in the last four seasons liked Pavard.
Merci, Benji! 🔴⚪ pic.twitter.com/4MeGAjxaPL
— FC Bayern Munich (@FCBayernEN) August 30, 2023
The record Bundesliga champions wanted to offer a new contract to Pavard, but he was eager to experience a new adventure. Moreover, Pavard also wanted to play regularly in central defense. Inter Milan has consistently used a back three in the last couple of seasons, so Pavard will get a chance to play in his preferred position.
Inter Milan tried to sign Pavard in the winter transfer window. They had a bid rejected for the French defender on the deadline day. Manchester United looked in the driving seat to sign Pavard a couple of weeks ago, but the move to Old Trafford was dependent on the departure of Harry Maguire. The English defender rejected a move to West Ham United, which paved the way for Inter Milan to seal the signing of Pavard.
Bayern has identified Chelsea Trevoh Chalobah as the replacement for Pavard. The two clubs are in talks to find a solution in the next couple of days. Bayern wants to sign Chalobah on loan, but Chelsea want a permanent transfer. The personal terms are likely to be a formality in this transfer.
Want your voice heard? Join the Bayern Strikes team!
Along with signing a defender, Bayern are also working on the signing of Joao Palhinha from Fulham. The Portuguese midfielder is the top target for the German club when it comes to strengthening the number six position in the squad.