It was a special international break for Konrad Laimer. The 28-year-old midfielder was awarded the Austrian player of the year award. Laimer has been one of the consistent performers for Bayern in the last 18 months. He has been utilized in the right-back position by Vincent Kompany.
Laimer arrived at Bayern as an all-action midfielder from RB Leipzig. He was expected to provide the steel and energy in the center of the park. However, his best form for Bayern came under Vincent Kompany in the right-back position. His versatility allowed him to play consistently for the Bavarian colours.
The Austrian midfielder has a contract until 2027 with Bayern. Laimer had initial talks with Bayern regarding a new deal. However, talks have reportedly reached an impasse due to a significant difference between his wage demands and Bayern’s potential offer.
Laimer has always insisted that he is enjoying life in Munich and would be open to signing a new deal. While talking to Servus TV News (via iMiaSanMia), Laimer expressed confidence about signing a new deal at Bayern, but he did insist that appreciation is crucial from the club for his performances. He also insisted that more has been written about his contract extension than what has happened in reality.
"Yes. I wouldn't speak against that, but we'll see. Of course it’s always about appreciation. That the performances you've delivered over the past years are recognized in some way. But I'm very relaxed. There was a brief conversation once, then there wasn't any again. Since then, more has been written than anything is actually true. "Konrad Laimer
It looks certain that Laimer will not explore a transfer away from Munich in the summer. The Bavarian club will hope to sit down with Laimer’s representatives at the end of the season and find an agreement over an improved salary.
Considering the way he has performed under Vincent Kompany, it is a no-brainer for Bayern to extend his contract. His versatility and quality, clubbed with his incredible work ethic, make him a rare type of player in Europe.
Laimer raves about Kompany’s clarity of thought
It is no surprise to see Laimer have words of praise for Kompany since he has played his best football at Bayern under the Belgian coach. The Austrian midfielder specifically praised Kompany’s clarity of thought about the style of play, and player profiles help the team to perform well on the pitch.
The Austrian midfielder also insisted that Die Roten’s chances of winning the Champions League are 50-50. He is hoping to see the team continue the momentum they have kept over the last few weeks during the final two months of the season. Die Roten are gearing up to face Real Madrid in the quarter-finals of the Champions League.