:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/69643467/1326136841.0.jpg)
Leon Goretzka has come off an exceptional season with the German record champions. The German midfielder is contracted with Bayern Munich until 2022 and is said to be very happy in Bavaria. Despite this, the current contract discussions have completely halted according to several sources.
Not your typical central midfielder @LeonGoretzka_ just does things different
— Bundesliga English (@Bundesliga_EN) July 20, 2021
What's the @FCBayernEN man's best quality? #Bundesliga pic.twitter.com/OCP9m0onsn
Goretzka is reportedly asking for 20 million euros per year, while Bayern is offering a reported 10-12 million euros. With such a significant gap between the parties’ expectations, it is no wonder why talks have derailed. Now Manchester United comes onto the scene and is willing to pay significantly higher wages. This led to a swirl of rumors and some panic from Bayern fans worrying about losing another great talent on a free transfer.
But is Goretzka actually going to leave? The Manchester Evening News believes this the England giants are being used. The newspaper claims that there have been concerns that Goretzka is using the name of Manchester United to negotiate a better contract with Bayern.
TRUE ✅ @ManUtd spoke to Leon Goretzka's agents and offered specific salary figures. the club is interested in his transfer @SPORTBILD
— Christian Falk (@cfbayern) July 21, 2021
Of course, this move is a subtle one that shows Bayern that Goretzka has other options and puts pressure on Bayern to pay the higher wages he demands. It is a smart move from Goretzka if that was his goal, but it only really confirms what we already knew. Other clubs will always be more willing to pay the big bucks.
Will Bayern call Goretzka’s bluff? Will Goretzka resign with Bayern or leave on a free next summer? Let us know your thoughts!