Alexander Nübel to decide on his future by January

As his contract comes to its close by the end of the season, Schalke’s Alexander Nübel would be free to come to terms with other clubs when the winter transfer window opens in January. Per Sport1’s Florian Plettenberg, the 23-year-old wants to make his decision by then. As Bayern’s own Manuel Neuer nears a contract extension till 2023, playing time could be hard to come if Nübel decides to make the move to Munich.

Nübel has shown his potential in front of goal at Schalke, averaging just 1.21 goals conceded per 90 minutes so far, outdoing Neuer’s 1.29 per 90 in the current season. In the previous season, Nübel conceded an average of 1.53 goals per 90 minutes, far behind Neuer’s 0.86. The large gap can be overlooked, considering the previous season was Nübel’s first proper season in the Bundesliga.

Manuel Neuer meanwhile has shown he is nearing his pre-injury level with some splendid saves this season. His stats, however, tell a different story. This has been a very “human” season for Bayern no. 1, if one compares his usual supernatural numbers (30 goals conceded by December compared to thirty-ish goals conceded in a whole season). Considering the shaky start to the season, the change of managers, and an injury-crisis at defense, these stats belie his improved form and Neuer-esque saves after his return from injury. According to Sport1, Neuer will soon sign a contract extension till 2023, with only a few details left to resolve, indicating his intention to remain the undisputed starter in goal for Bayern.

Nübel’s move to Bayern would thus be impacted by Neuer’s extension, since he would rather not warm the bench behind Neuer. The only possible way for this transfer to go through would be if the two agreed to split games or leagues, which Neuer is unlikely to accept. A contract extension with Schalke, including a low release clause a-la Timo Werner, would be a good alternative if Nübel has his sights set firmly on Bayern.