Real Madrid may rival Bayern Munich for Kai Havertz signing

Bayer Leverkusen ace Kai Havertz has opened eyes with his sensational talent, striking athleticism, technical ability, versatility, and production since making his debut in the 2016-2017 season.

Because of all of those traits, Havertz has become one of the most sought-after young talents in Europe. Havertz, who will turn 21 this month, has long been linked to Bayern Munich, but there could be more serious overtures outside of Germany. Specifically, Real Madrid might be plotting a mega-move to procure the player that many believe is the future leader of Germany’s international attack.

Per Sport Bild, Real Madrid is intrigued by the flexibility of Havertz, who has the size, speed, and technical ability to play anywhere along a team’s front-line. While the La Liga power has multiple areas it is trying to bolster on its roster, Havertz’s talent might be making Real Madrid re-consider its strategy. Currently, Real Madrid views Havertz as a target for the Summer 2021 transfer window:

The Royals had been working on a summer transfer plan for months. In addition to a striker and a central midfielder, there was a flexible offensive player on the list: Havertz. In times of the corona pandemic and the resulting economic uncertainty, large transfers are currently unlikely to be realized. However, Real does not want to stop its efforts for the German international, but rather postpone it to the coming year. One thing is clear: FC Bayern did not give up the fight for Havertz, but put it behind. The transfer of Manchester City’s Leroy Sané and a right-back is a priority this summer.

Interestingly Sport Bild reiterated Bayern Munich’s focus on securing Manchester City star Leroy Sane and a right-back. Given Benjamin Pavard’s stellar season in the position and the ability for Joshua Kimmich to slide to his old haunt in a pinch, would Bayern Munich re-examine its own strategy to prevent Havertz from making the leap to Spain?

BFW Analysis

There was a narrative in some circles last season that Havertz was “overrated”, but the youngster has dispelled those beliefs with an absolutely terrific season for Die Werkself. In each season since his debut, Havertz has been a consistent producer, while also playing across multiple positions:

• 2016/2017: 4 goals, 6 assists in 28 games across all competitions
• 2017/2018: 4 goals, 9 assists in 35 games across all competitions
• 2018/2019: 20 goals, 7 assists in 42 games across all competitions
• 2019/2020 (so far): 15 goals, 8 assists in 38 games across all competitions

Photo by Stuart Franklin/Getty Images

It should be noted that Havertz’s performance this season is more impressive given that Bayer Leverkusen has less overall talent surrounding him than previous seasons. Even with that, Havertz has embraced more of a leadership role on the team and clearly has become the focal point of the squad’s overall effort.

Aside of Real Madrid, there was also some thought that Havertz might want to join his good friend Julian Brandt at Borussia Dortmund, but those reports have silenced in recent months.

As we covered yesterday, former Bayern Munich president Uli Hoeness bluntly expressed Bayern Munich’s interest in Havertz, but cited the global economic distress cause by COVID-19 as a major roadblock to making a move.

Another factor in Bayern Munich’s reluctance to make a big move this summer could be the absolutely phenomenal season that Thomas Muller has had — along with the veteran’s recent contract extension that will run through the end of the 2023 season. With 11 goals and 21 assists across all competitions, Muller has been one of the most effective and productive players in all of Europe. Still, Havertz might not necessarily be in direct competition with Muller as he can float to either wing or even play striker. Finding playing time, might not be as difficult as some perceive.

Regardless, it is clear that Bayern Munich will — at some point — make an offer to bring in Havertz, but will the Bavarians be pressed into a move earlier than anticipated because of interest from clubs like Real Madrid?

We could find out the answer to that question this summer, despite an uncertain financial climate.