Bayern Munich announce signing of Konrad Laimer

Bayern Munich have confirmed the signing of midfielder Konrad Laimer on a free transfer from RB Leipzig, as revealed by the club’s official website.

The deal has been in place for a long time, with the Austrian midfielder being the top target for ex-Bayern manager Julian Nagelsmann.

The 26-year-old has penned a contract with the German champions until 2027 and will follow in the footsteps of Dayot Upamecano and Marcel Sabizter to seal a move from Leipzig to Allianz Arena in recent years.

A talented player from the Red Bull school of football, Laimer made 190 appearances for Leipzig in all competitions.

He has been a pivotal figure in Die Roten Bullen’s dominance in Bundesliga over the last few seasons and was also part of the 2023 DFB Pokal winning side.

“It’s a dream come true for me,” Laimer said on joining the Bavarians. “FC Bayern is one of the biggest clubs in the world. I will give everything for the club and the fans.

“FC Bayern always has the highest goals – just like me. I’m in the right place here. I’m only capable of giving 100 per cent, and that’s what I’ll put into every training session from day one. I can hardly wait.”

Having said he was the primary target for his former coach Nagelsmann, it will be interesting to see what plans Thomas Tuchel does have in place for Laimer.

Moreover, Laimer’s signing would further cast doubt on the likes of Ryan Gravenberch, Leon Goretzka and Marcel Sabitzer, who have been linked with a move away from Allianz Arena. 

Gravenberch has endured a difficult debut season with the Bavarians, failing to nail down a prominent role in the first team.

Premier League giants Liverpool continue to keep an eye on the former Ajax midfielder, who is open to leaving Bayern after one season to revive his career.

Having recently ended his loan spell with Manchester United, Sabitzer is said to be not in the plans of Tuchel and neither does the player want to return to his parent club.

Gortezka is also no longer considered untouchable by Bayern, and any new signings could lead to his exit.

Joshua Kimmich’s exit rumours have also cropped up in recent times, with Barcelona making him a dream target to replace Sergio Busquets.

However, Bayern have no intentions to sell the German international.

The 2022/23 Bundesliga winners have identified Fiorentina’s Sofyan Amrabat as an alternative target for West Ham United’s Declan Rice, who could be on the way to Arsenal.