Joshua Kimmich’s contract with Bayern Munich expires on June 30 next year. So far, negotiations between the two parties have not gone anywhere, although according to Bild, Kimmich’s priority is to stay at the Allianz Arena.
Meanwhile, at Barcelona, Hansi Flick is keeping a close eye on Kimmich-Bayern’s situation. Having coached Bayern and the German national team, Hansi Flick knows his former player’s footballing qualities very well. Flick wants to strengthen Barca’s midfield and it’s no surprise that Kimmich is at the top of his recruitment list.
Since Sergio Busquets left in 2023, Barcelona have been keen to sign a top defensive midfielder. However, the poor financial situation, combined with the strict spending limits of the league, has forced the Catalan club to accept leaving this important position vacant. If they can own Kimmich, for “0 dong” in the summer of 2025, that would be great for Barcelona.
Hansi Flick and Joshua Kimmich when they were still playing for Bayern Munich
It’s easy to say that Barcelona should sign Kimmich if he were a free agent, but do they really need him? Marc Casado is a player of similar style, and he has proven himself indispensable since joining the team at the start of the season. Furthermore, the Catalans already have plenty of options in central midfield, including Frenkie de Jong, Gavi, Pedri and Marc Bernal, although the first two are currently out injured. They also have some exciting prospects from La Masia, such as Pau Prim.
Barcelona’s financial woes will not be resolved next summer, so the club will not be able to spend freely. Barcelona still need to reduce their wage bill, and this is one of the reasons why the Catalan club has difficulty “reaching” the expectations of a star like Kimmich.
Ultimately, it remains to be seen how Barcelona will approach the summer transfer window of 2025. Sporting director Deco is currently drawing up a shortlist and candidates whose contracts are due to expire such as Kimmich are certain to be included. Flick would like to reunite with Kimmich, but this is not up to the German coach.