Bayern Munich plan talks with Joshua Kimmich at end of season

The next couple of months will be busy for Max Eberl and Christoph Freund. They are tasked with finding the next head coach after deciding to part ways with Thomas Tuchel at the end of the season. Along with finding the new coach, Bayern also have to hold contract talks with several key players in the squad.

Joshua Kimmich is one of the senior players who have less than 18 months left on existing contracts. The German midfielder has been heavily linked with a move away from Bavaria. Paris Saint-Germain reportedly tried to sign him in January, but Bayern had no plans to sell Kimmich in winter.

The next deal is set to be Kimmich’s last big contract of his career, so he is likely to assess all options. Bayern reportedly no longer considers selling Kimmich an unrealistic option, but the club has consistently insisted that he remains a key player for them.

The German midfielder has been doing a fine job in the right-back position over the last few weeks. Bayern are in no rush to initiate talks for a new deal, but it does look like a time frame is set for negotiations. While talking to Bild (via iMiaSanMia), Freund revealed that talks with Kimmich will take place in April or May.

"“Now it's almost international break and Joshua won't be here. We’ll all be together again at the end of March – we’ll sit together in April or May.""

- Christoph Freund

Kimmich was not fussed by speculation around his future in January. The German international is focussing on delivering strong performances on the pitch. While talking to Bild over the weekend, Kimmich also insisted that he is settled in Bavaria despite speculation about his future.

Bayern are expected to strengthen the midfield in the summer. The Bavarian club tried to sign a defensive midfielder last summer, but a deadline move for Joao Palhinha collapsed at the last moment. Die Roten have been heavily linked with Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi throughout the season.

Kimmich prefers playing in the number six position. The arrival of a new defensive/holding midfielder will certainly raise questions about his role in the team. The German midfielder will seek clarity from the new head coach before signing a new deal. Waiting until the end of the season for contract talks will benefit all parties.

Meanwhile, Sky Sports is reporting that crucial talks between Alphonso Davies and Bayern will take place this week. There is a significant gap between both parties when it comes to wages. If there is no resolution over a new deal after talks, Davies is expected to leave Die Roten in the summer.