Bayern Munich sorted out their options in central defense during the second half of last season. The Bavarian club agreed a new long-term contract with Dayot Upamecano. Along with Upamecano, Bayern also decided to stick with Jonathan Tah and Kim Min-jae as center-back options for next season.
Hiroki Ito and Josip Stanisic can also provide cover in the central defense. Since there were no departures, Bayern decided against signing a central defender in the summer. They strengthened their back four by signing a left-back in the form of Nathaniel Brown.
However, Bayern continue to monitor the market for defenders as they are likely to sign one in the future transfer window. It does look like they are specifically looking at a Portuguese defender in case they part ways with a senior center-back next summer.
While talking to FCB Insider, Bild journalist Christian Falk said that Bayern continue to monitor Benfica’s Tomas Araújo. The Portuguese center-back is high on the list of defensive targets at the Bavarian club.
The 24-year-old defender primarily plays in the heart of defense, but he can also slot in the right-back position. Araújo has been a key player for Benfica over the last few seasons. The Portuguese club has secured his future by extending his contract until 2031. However, a big offer may change their mind if Bayern decide to pursue a move for him next summer.
Move for Araújo will depend on the future of Kim Min-jae
As per Falk, Bayern will make a move for Araújo if Kim Min-jae ends up leaving the club next summer. The South Korean defender is currently a third-choice option in the heart of the defense. His current deal at Bayern expires in 2028.
Die Roten were initially open to listening to offers for Kim Min-jae in the summer. However, they changed their stance once Kim Min-jae made it clear he is not looking to leave Bavaria. The South Korean defender is content with fighting for game time at Bayern. He has started the season strongly, making a case for being the first-choice partner to Dayot Upamecano in central defense.
Bayern will sit down with Kim Min-jae in the autumn to discuss his future. One German report has suggested that a contract renewal can be a topic for discussion if he continues to excel under Kompany.
Araújo will continue to feature on Die Roten’s shortlist, but a move may not take place anytime soon unless there is a significant turn of events around the future of Kim Min-jae.
Add us as a preferred source on Google