Leon Goretzka is, isn’t coming to Bayern Munich

The rumors surrounding Leon Goretzka's potential transfer from Schalke to Bayern Munich have only intensified since his agent was seen visiting Säbener Strasse last week. According to Sport Bild earlier today, Goretzka and Bayern Munich have allegedly reached a deal that would see the midfielder arrive in Munich on a free transfer in 2018 at the latest. An earlier transfer might also be possible, if Bayern and Schalke can come to terms.

That report, however, prompted Goretzka himself to make a statement on Facebook:

I'd very briefly like to make a statement regarding the reports in the media. There are rumors, conjectures, speculation - I can tell you that everything that has been published is wrong! I will present the facts when decisions have really been made.
Your Leon.

That would appear to bring us back to square one.

There is no denying Bayern Munich’s interest in Goretzka. Sport Bild reports that he was courted by none other than Hermann Gerland while he was still playing for Bochum’s U19 team. Gerland has followed his progress for the past five years. In 2012, according to Bayern youth director Michael Tarnat, Goretzka decided against transferring to Bayern so that he could break through with Bochum and finish his Abitur.

Now Goretzka must be deliberate whether to make the precarious leap to Bayern Munich or potentially sign an extension with Schalke, where he would undoubtedly assume a leading role.