Bayer Leverkusen have reportedly initiated contact with Leon Goretzka’s representatives to explore a free transfer this summer, according to Sport Bild.
The German international is set to end his decorated eight-year tenure at the Allianz Arena after his impending departure was confirmed back in January by Bayern sporting director Christoph Freund.
Still, Goretzka has remained a valuable squad member for Vincent Kompany’s side, having made 33 appearances across all competitions this term, albeit with most of them coming off the bench.
Since the departure of former captain Granit Xhaka to Sunderland last summer, Leverkusen have missed leadership in the central third, and their interest in Goretzka is unsurprising.
However, the path to a deal is complicated by significant financial and competitive barriers. Goretzka currently commands an annual salary of over €10 million, a figure that comfortably exceeds Leverkusen’s wage structure.
For a move to the BayArena to materialise, the midfielder would likely need to take a pay cut.
Also, the lure of the Premier League remains a potent threat to Leverkusen’s ambitions. Both Arsenal and Tottenham are reportedly monitoring the situation, with Spurs viewing Goretzka as a primary target if they opt against a permanent move for Joao Palhinha.
Given the level of competition in the race to land Goretzka, Leverkusen will be keen to secure Champions League football for next season.
In the meantime, Kasper Hjulmand’s men will set their sights on making it through to the last 16 of Europe’s premier club competition when they visit Olympiacos for the first leg of the knockout play-offs.
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