Bayern Munich’s Bold Offseason Gambit: Vlahović Rumors, Renewals, and a Klassiker Countdown
16 October 2025
Transfer whispers ahead of the Klassiker
Bayern Munich find themselves in a busy spell off the pitch as transfer chatter intersects with contract renewals and bold statements from leaders ahead of the much-anticipated Klassiker against Borussia Dortmund.
German outlets have reignited talk of a potential move for Dusan Vlahović from Juventus. The Serbian striker, eager for a new challenge, reportedly would welcome a move to Munich, but official talks have so far yielded little progress.
Despite the player’s interest, Bayern’s initial inquiries about Vlahović’s status at Juventus have not translated into substantive negotiations. The barrier remains the wage demands that would make any deal financially heavy for the Bavarians.
In parallel, reports from Bild indicate that Fenerbahçe have shown interest in Leon Goretzka, driven by the Turkish club’s coach Domenico Tedisco who knows him from their Schalke days. Bayern’s midfield fortress could be appealing, but moving in January appears unlikely given the squad’s current depth.
Meanwhile, Bayern is expected to open renewal talks with Goretzka, though expectations for a quick consensus are tempered by other priorities. On the horizon, Serge Gnabry is reported to be ready to accept a salary reduction in exchange for performance-driven incentives, a gesture seen as a sign Bayern wants to keep him.
Gnabry has expressed satisfaction with life at the club, and there are signs that negotiations could start warmly if Bayern opens dialogue, with the winger seeking long-term security and stability in Munich.
Kim Min-jae remains content at Bayern, even as chatter swirls around possible January moves. The club is reportedly comfortable with his performances and fitness, making a transfer unlikely in the near term.
Another major hurdle looms over Dayo Upamecano’s contract extension. Bayern reportedly balk at paying the big signing-on bonus the French defender asks for, with Real Madrid among rivals said to be tracking his situation. The club faces a balancing act between star salaries and long-term squad cohesion.
Meanwhile, Joshua Kimmich spoke ahead of the Dortmund game, highlighting the role of Harry Kane in the squad and praising the German’s opponent’s defensive solidity and pace. He stressed that victories breed confidence and that personal awards would follow if the team succeeds.
Kimmich also praised Nico Schlotterbeck’s development, noting that the defender is evolving into a leader who can anchor the team in both domestic and international duties. He emphasized the importance of staying focused and keeping a sharp edge for the Klassiker and beyond.
As the days tick toward the weekend, Bayern’s plans remain fluid, with the club weighing the economic realities against sporting ambition. Extra time for talks could be the difference between adding value and chasing mirages.
Key questions for Bayern this week
Will Bayern strike for Vlahović, or will wage realities push the deal into the shadows of the transfer window? Is Gnabry willing to accept incentives to remain, and how will Upamecano’s contract talks unfold in the face of Real Madrid interest?
Who else could move in or out of Munich before the Klassiker, and what will the club’s midfield and frontline look like if Goretzka or Schlotterbeck shift roles in the short term?
The club remains optimistic but cautious, balancing dreams of an ambitious recruitment with the hard arithmetic of the wage bill and long-term planning.
Punchline 1: If Bayern wants a striker who scores in every language, maybe hire a translator who also doubles as a striker—net results guaranteed.
Punchline 2: In Munich, the salary cap has its own security detail—keeps the numbers from escaping with the matchday vibes.
