Leon Goretzka faces uncertain Bayern Munich future

Despite his role alongside Joshua Kimmich in Saturday's narrow 1-0 victory, reports suggest Bayern remain keen to offload the midfielder.

Goretzka, under contract until 2026, has struggled for regular playing time since Vincent Kompany took over as head coach. With Aleksandar Pavlovic, Joao Palhinha, and Kimmich all preferred options in midfield, the 28-year-old has fallen down the pecking order.

Nevertheless, Goretzka has reportedly resisted leaving, focusing instead on regaining favour within the squad.

Union Berlin manager Horst Heldt expressed his admiration for Goretzka, stating he would welcome the midfielder "with open arms" should a move to the capital materialise.

However, the player has previously been linked with several high-profile clubs, casting doubt over such a transfer.

Meanwhile, Bayern are reportedly preparing to secure Jamal Musiala's long-term future. According to Sport1, the club are willing to match Harry Kane's annual salary of up to $22 million to make Musiala their joint top earner.

Bayern are eager to extend the 20-year-old's contract, potentially until 2030, but the player has indicated that talks will be deferred until the new year.

"My focus right now is on the two DFB games," Musiala said at a recent press conference, adding, "I want to finish the first half of the season well and then we'll see what happens."

In injury news, Joao Palhinha has withdrawn from Portugal's squad for their UEFA Nations League matches due to a groin issue.

Bayern have confirmed that the midfielder, who has been pivotal in recent weeks following Pavlovic's injury, will miss around three weeks of action.

Palhinha's absence adds another challenge to Bayern's congested midfield picture as they navigate a crucial stretch of the season.

READ MORE: Arsenal, Tottenham and Liverpool compete for Frankfurt's Hugo Larsson