Bayern Munich are focusing on contract renewals during the winter transfer window. They will look at signing players in the summer instead of January. Bayern chiefs followed a similar approach to last winter's transfer window when they worked on new contracts for Jamal Musiala, Joshua Kimmich, and Alphonso Davies.
The defending Bundesliga champions have found a breakthrough in contract talks with Serge Gnabry and Konrad Laimer. Both players are expected to sign on the dotted line when the squad reports at Sabner Strasse after the winter break.
Laimer had 18 months left on his current deal. The Austrian has been an exceptional performer for Die Roten under Vincent Kompany. He has excelled in the full-back position, becoming the first choice right-back at the club. Laimer has publicly expressed a desire to commit his future to Bayern, so contract negotiations would have been straightforward. He is expected to sign a new contract until 2029.
Meanwhile, Gnabry had entered the final 12 months of his contract. After a productive Hinrunde, Bayern decided to offer Gnabry a two-year contract. The German forward has reportedly taken a pay cut to stay in Munich.
In his column for Sky Sports in Germany (via SportBild), Lothar Matthaus insisted that Bayern did the right job by offering new deals to Laimer and Gnabry. He believes Laimer specifically deserves praise for his consistency and versatility.
"Extending the contracts of both players is the right decision in my opinion. The Austrian is having a strong first half of the season, puts the team first, and above all impresses with his versatility."Lothar Matthaus
Matthaus also believes that Gnabry still has a crucial role to play in the squad. Along with his quality on the pitch, Matthaus believes Gnabry is a leader in the attack. He can make an impact from the bench when needed, making him a good forward to have in the squad.
Bayern face their biggest challenge ahead in contract extensions
The contract renewals for Laimer and Gnabry were fairly straightforward for Bayern. Both players were very keen on staying in Munich, and the salary packages also aligned with the club’s wage structure.
The biggest challenge for the club hierarchy will be getting the contract extension of Dayot Upamecano over the line. The French center-back is in the final six months of his contract. He can speak to interested clubs in January about a free transfer at the end of the season.
Bayern reportedly have an agreement on the wages in principle with Upamecano, but there is work to do since the defender wants a release clause in his new contract. Considering how good Upamecano has been for Bayern over the last 18 months, it is crucial for Bayern and Vincent Kompany that he stays at the club beyond this season.