Real Madrid shoot down claims of interest in Bayern Munich's Joshua Kimmich

By SABC Sport
24th January 2025

Joshua Kimmich, the Bayern Munich midfielder, has become adept at playing the waiting game with his contract renewal, pushing negotiations to the brink.

As his current deal nears its end in June 2025, the football world watches to see if he'll sign anew or explore new horizons.

There have been whispers in Germany of Real Madrid showing interest, with reports suggesting open negotiations between Kimmich's representatives and the Madrid club.

However, Real Madrid have firmly denied these claims. "There has been no contact or interest in signing Kimmich," a source from Valdebebas has said.

This isn't the first time Kimmich has been linked with the Spanish giants; last summer, he was mooted as a potential replacement for Toni Kroos, and more recently, his name has been mentioned in connection with the right-back position at Real Madrid.

But, as Marca have confirmed, there's been nothing beyond an unreciprocated offer since Kimmich does not feature in Real Madrid's future plans.

Back in Munich, talks for Kimmich's extension are ongoing, mirroring the situation with teammate Alphonso Davies. Although Davies' negotiations saw some peculiar agent activity which disregarded earlier discussions and deadlines, both players find themselves in a similar position, having been in contract renewal discussions for over a year while their names are floated with various clubs.

The scenario echoes that of Virgil van Dijk, who was also linked with Real Madrid weeks ago. However, like Kimmich, Van Dijk isn't in Real Madrid's plans, who are now looking towards the summer transfer window.

Their interest in Liverpool's Trent Alexander-Arnold could only materialize if Liverpool's management miraculously softens their stance. Without the Englishman, Carlo Ancelotti might find his squad lacking reinforcement for the remainder of the season.

Recent updates from X posts indicate that while Bayern Munich are keen on retaining Kimmich, there's a palpable fear within the club that Real Madrid could swoop in, especially as his contract winds down. However, posts on X also reflect ongoing concrete interest from clubs in England and Spain, with Manchester City and Barcelona specifically highlighted as potential suitors.

This saga continues to unfold, with Kimmich at the heart of a transfer tug-of-war that could see one of football's most versatile players chart a new course or cement his legacy in Munich.