Bayern Munich had a summer of uncertainty in the left-back position due to the contract situation of Alphonso Davies. The Canadian defender entered the final 12 months of his contract at the start of the summer. Max Eberl reportedly wanted to make an improved contract offer, but Bayern hierarchy were not sure about offering a mammoth salary to Davies.
The 23-year-old was heavily linked with a move to Real Madrid throughout the summer. Bayern had contingency plans ready if Davies had moved to the Spanish capital during the transfer window. According to Fabrizio Romano (via iMiaSanMia), Inter Milan defender Federico Dimarco was on Bayern’s list of targets to replace Davies.
Die Roten didn’t make a formal approach for the Italian full-back. Moreover, Dimarco was not thinking about a transfer during the summer. It would have been a difficult deal to execute since Inter Milan would have asked for a significant fee for the Italian international.
Bayern also explored a move for AC Milan full-back Theo Hernandez. Since Davies ended up staying in Munich, the Bavarian club didn’t hold talks with AC Milan to strengthen the left-back position by signing Hernandez. They may have to revisit the potential transfer next summer if Davies ends up running down his contract.
Bayern have not closed doors on renewal for Alphonso Davies
Despite the tricky contract situation, Bayern have no plans to sideline Davies. The Canadian full-back is a key member of the Die Roten squad under Vincent Kompany. He will get an adequate amount of game time throughout the season even though he could end up leaving Bavaria on a free transfer next summer.
Bayern have not completely ruled out a contract extension for Davies. They may offer new terms if Davies gets back to his best this season. However, Bayern will make sure that the contract extension is done on their financial terms. They are unlikely to cave into the demands of the representatives of Davies.
The Bavarian faithful will hope to see Davies get back to his best this season. The constant speculation over his future affected Davies on the pitch. The Canadian eventually lost the spot in the starting XI at the end of last season.
Real Madrid are ready to swoop in for Davies, but the 23-year-old defender needs a strong campaign to show why he is so highly coveted by Real Madrid and other big European clubs. Bayern fans will be content with his departure if he ends up answering his critics this season and helping the club bring silverware back to Allianz Arena.