The goalkeeping department at Bayern Munich underwent a few changes during the summer transfer window. The Bavarian club parted ways with Yann Sommer, while Alexander Nubel went out on loan to VfB Stuttgart. After trying to sign several goalkeepers, Bayern eventually completed the signing of Daniel Peretz from Maccabi Tel Aviv in August.
Sven Ulreich has started the season as number one for Bayern since Manuel Neuer is not yet fit to recover from a leg injury that has kept him out for nine months. Meanwhile, Peretz has been effectively third third-choice goalkeeper in the squad. The 23-year-old shot-stopper is considered a long-term prospect by Bayern. He made his Bayern debut on Tuesday in DFB Pokal against Preussen Munster.
Neuer is hopeful about getting back to his best after such a long injury layoff. Ulreich has done a good job of deputizing him this season. Both senior goalkeepers have entered the final 12 months of their contract. It does look like Bayern have no plans to release them in the summer.
According to Kicker (via iMiaSanMia), Bayern are planning to open contract talks with Ulreich and Neuer in autumn. Ulreich is open to staying at Die Roten as a backup goalkeeper to Neuer for one more season. Bayern values both goalkeepers from sporting and team-building perspectives, so they are open to extending their contracts.
Bild has also reported that Die Roten are set to hold talks with Ulreich in the coming months. Previously, Ulreich had hinted that retirement would become an option for him if he left Bavaria. The outcome of negotiations with Rekordmeister will most likely decide if Ulreich continues to play at the top level.
Bayern will open contract talks with Sven Ulreich in the next few months. Ulreich never complains about not playing or about being #2 or even #3. Bayern are aware of his loyalty and his close relationship with Manuel Neuer. Ulreich is open to staying and even retiring in Munich… pic.twitter.com/XgJ18TWQs8
— Bayern & Germany (@iMiaSanMia) September 28, 2023
The record Bundesliga champions will also hope that Neuer is back to his best. He is a crucial member of the dressing room due to his leadership qualities. The club skipper continues to remain a big influence on the pitch due to his shot-stopping and ability to play out from the back in a precise manner.
Neuer and Ulreich are coming to the end of their career, so contract negotiations will not be complex for Bayern. The Bavarian club will most likely offer them one-year extensions. Since both players are settled in Munich, negotiations are expected to be smooth.
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Bayern do need to plan long-term in the goalkeeping department. They need to find a world-class goalkeeper in the market or develop Peretz into one to succeed Neuer. Nubel was considered a viable option to succeed Neuer, so his development at Stuttgart during the loan spell will be closely followed by the club.