Report: Bayern Munich planning a goalkeeper overhaul for next season

A new report by Sport1.de claims that Bayern Munich are looking to overhaul the goalkeeping position in the summer, with Schalke’s Alexander Nubel being the main target. Concern over Manuel Neuer’s fitness seems to be driving factor behind the move.

Neuer recently suffered a setback against Fortuna Dusseldorf, where he tore a calf muscle while attempting to make a pass. The Bayern captain is expected to be out for a number of weeks, but may return before important final games against Eintracht Frankfurt and RB Leipzig. This is the second time Neuer has missed time this season due to a calf injury, and that may have the bosses concerned. Hence the search for a new goalkeeper.

According to Sport1, sporting director Hasan Salihamidzic already inquired about Dynamo Dresden keeper Marcus Schubert, but the interest has gone cold. Instead, Schalke’s 22-year old keeper Alexander Nubel is on the club’s radar. The youngster’s contract runs out in 2020, so either Bayern could get him for free next summer, or use their leverage to purchase him for a reduced free this year.

In the meantime, Bayern youth keeper Christian Fruchtl is expected to go out on a two-year loan, and discussions have already been held with FC Augsburg with Fortuna also being interested. President Uli Hoeness is reportedly a big advocate of the Bavarian native, as he wishes to see a youth player make the first team.

What about Bayern’s existing keepers? Well, Manuel Neuer reportedly has no intention of leaving the club before 2021, when his contract runs out. A short term move to another team is also out of the question, so Sport1 claims that Manuel Neuer will stick around.

As for Sven Ulreich, he’s received no indication from the Bayern bosses that he will be sold. He is apparently happily settled with his family in Munich, and may even be willing to accept a role as third choice keeper going forward.

Should Bayern Munich be looking for a new keeper in the summer? Neuer hasn’t been as game-changing as he used to be, and his recurring injuries are a problem — but he’s only 33 years old, which is still quite young for a goalkeeper. There was a time when the notion of replacing Neuer seemed ridiculous — now, it may become a reality.