Transfer Talk: Kimmich edging towards Bayern Munich exit

The summer transfer window is open for the Premier League and is set to open across Europe soon, and there are plenty of moves in the works and gossip swirling around. Transfer Talk brings you all the latest buzz on rumours, comings, goings and, of course, done deals!

TOP STORY: Kimmich edges towards Bayern exit

Joshua Kimmich looks likely to depart Bayern Munich either this summer or next year, with the player not willing to extend his contract, according to Sky Sports Deutschland’s Florian Plettenberg.

The 29-year-old is under contract with the Bavarian outfit until 2025, however, it is reported that Kimmich is not interested in extending his deal, leaving the door ajar for an exit this summer.

The report reveals that Barcelona, Real Madrid, Liverpool, Arsenal and Manchester City are the only clubs in Europe who can secure a deal for the Germany international. Kimmich is understood to earn roughly €20 million per year as one of Bayern’s highest earners, which could price out other interested parties.

Failure to secure a departure this summer would allow Kimmich to leave as a free agent next year, representing a significant financial loss for the German giants, which means Vincent Kompany’s side could be open to any transfer offers. However, it is reported that concrete talks will not take place until the conclusion of Germany’s Euro 2024 campaign.

PAPER GOSSIP

– Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford could depart the club this summer if the Red Devils secure a deal for Bologna forward Joshua Zirkzee, reveals Football Insider. It is reported that United will accept a “huge offer” for Rashford, who has caught the eye of Arsenal. The 26-year-old notched just eight goals across all competitions last season, leading to him missing out on the England squad for the European Championship.

– AC Milan will not part ways with forward Rafael Leão for less than €100m amid Saudi Pro League interest, suggests La Gazzetta dello Sport. The Portugal international has not been considered as a potential departure this summer by the Italian outfit, however, it is reported that Leao’s father has engaged in talks with Al Hilal, who have shown an interest in the forward.

– AS Roma have joined the race for Nice midfielder Khephren Thuram, reports Calciomercato. The 23-year-old has been subject to interest from Juventus, who are reported to still lead the race for the playmaker. With Nice interested in Juventus forward Arkadiusz Milik, the prospect of a deal with the Turin outfit looks more likely.

– Borussia Dortmund are confident of securing a deal for VfB Stuttgart forward Serhou Guirassy, despite interest from other clubs in Europe, according to Florian Plettenberg. The 28-year-old notched 30 goals across all competitions last season, including 28 in the Bundesliga. Whilst Dortmund’s domestic rivals Bayern Munich are understood to be out of the race, it is reported that Arsenal, AC Milan and Chelsea are all showing interest.

– Tottenham Hotspur are weighing up a potential summer approach for Manchester City right-back Yan Couto, per The Sun. The report reveals that Spurs are looking to offload Emerson Royal and have identified Couto as a replacement for the Brazilian. Couto has spent the previous two seasons on loan at Girona, with the report indicating that City could be receptive to allowing the 22-year-old to depart this summer.