Bayern Munich’s interest in Unai Nunez cools, but Bilbao still wants Javi Martinez

There have been many rumors and much speculation of a January transfer move to compensate for Bayern Munich horrible luck with injuries this season. Injuries have primarily affected Bayern’s defense with starting center-backs Niklas Süle and Lucas Hernandez both out long-term. This had led to talks between Bayern Munich and Athletic Bilbao defender Unai Nunez, but despite Bayern’s situation, the transfer talk has been dying down.

SPOX reports that the Bayern bosses are no longer interested in signing Unai Nunez, or any other center-back, because of how impressed they have been by the current improvised back-line. David Alaba has expertly transitioned from fullback to central defense. Javi Martinez has also returned to his role at center-back and delivered some excellent performances, as well. Also, Bayern still has options in Jerome Boateng off the bench and Benjamin Pavard, who has been playing right-back.

But conversations between Athletic Bilbao and Bayern Munich have concerned not only Unai Nunez but also Javi Martinez. Martinez played with Athletic Bilbao for several years before joining Bayern, and Bilbao has been vocal about wanting their former player to return. Bayern, however, is still unwilling to let Martinez go, seeing him as a very important player both in central defense and midfield.

Bilbao sporting director Rafa Alkorta is still hopeful of a Martinez/Bilbao reunion. He stated,

Javi is a fantastic guy and a top player whom we all love here. He can determine when he comes back to us, but he is an important player at Bayern.

While Bayern and Bilbao may not come to an agreement this January, conversations are ongoing between the clubs. A deal could eventually be struck that sees Nunez come to Bayern Munich and Javi return to Bilbao. Bayern will have to fend off Borussia Dortmund in the transfer market, though. They also are reportedly interested in signing Nunez.