Bayern Munich’s Hasan Salihamidžić on the hunt for talent in Amsterdam

Bayern Munich’s quest to procure more talent took sporting director Hasan Salihamidžić to Amsterdam yesterday, where he watched Real Madrid’s 2-1 victory over Ajax in the Champions League.

According to the Münchner Merkur, Bayern’s own Brazzo had plenty of talent to keep his eyes on as he watched. Of course, Ajax center back Matthijs de Ligt was likely among those being monitored closely.

(Matthijs) De Ligt would still be available. After Benjamin Pavard, the defender would be the second defensive man who could help launch the roster renewal in Munich. According to some speculation, (Bayern) would have to pay 60 million euros for de Ligt. However, there are some other personnel details in connection with the defender. Is Lucas Hernandez coming from Atletico Madrid? Will Jerome Boateng and Mats Hummels stay? Which position should Joshua Kimmich play?

The publication also speculated that Salihamidžić could have also been looking at some of Ajax’s other young talent.

Other interesting players at Ajax could also be Danny van de Beek (central midfielder) or Noussair Mazraoui (right-back). Kasper Dolberg (striker), however, was already linked to Munich a long time ago and played in the match against Real. Maybe Salihamidzic is on a Lewandowski-replacement search? If Salihamidzic continues to follow the trajectory of signing only very young players — like Callum Hudson-Odoi — (Ajax’s Hakim) Ziyech is not an option.

The German outlet also noted that Real Madrid could have some players on Bayern’s radar, including Gareth Bale, Marco Asensio, Isco (who did not play), and Lucas Vasquez.

BFW Analysis

One thing is certain, Brazzo didn’t pop over to Amsterdam to hit the normal tourist traps. He was there to get a closer look at — and perhaps talk to representatives for — some of the talent that was on the pitch. Of all the names listed above, the player that jumps out as most realistic is De Ligt, given his age, ability, and alleged price tag.

Bayern has long been rumored to be high on the Ajax captain. The 19-year-old has all of the traits that clubs want in a modern-day center back. He has an excellent frame (6-foot-2, 198 pounds), great skill, plays a physical style, has good pace, and exudes leadership on the pitch.

The other Ajax players listed have value, but would not seem to be a natural fit in Munich given the current roster composition. In fact, of those players, Ziyech may be the most ready for Bayern next season, but is deemed the least likely because of his age (25).

As for the Real Madrid players, they are fun to talk about, but let’s be real — any of those names listed would likely cost far more than Bayern is probably willing to pay at this stage. The oft-injured Bale would be an excellent acquisition for Bayern on the wing, but it is hard to see the Bavarians coughing up €100m (or more!) to acquire him.