Bayern Munich sporting director Max Eberl is quietly optimistic that Joshua Kimmich will sign a new deal at Allianz Arena.
There is currently a host of speculation surrounding the Germany international's future, as his contract in Munich is due to expire this summer.
Kimmich remains a vital player for one of the elite teams in European football, but it is understood that the 30-year-old is seeking a fresh challenge in the latter stages of his career.
Manchester United and Liverpool are both believed to be keen to bring the midfielder to the Premier League, while there is also thought to be interest from the likes of Real Madrid and Barcelona.
However, Eberl is hopeful that the German, who has represented his current side on 422 occasions in all competitions, will ultimately decide to extend his stay at Allianz Arena.
"Joshua Kimmich turns 30 on Saturday. He has almost a decade of FC Bayern behind him," Eberl told TZ.
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Eberl discusses Kimmich future amid Man United, Liverpool talk
"Players are people with their own life plans and not robots. And when Joshua says: Last summer I couldn't imagine extending my contract and now I've perhaps got it in my head to some extent and want to think about it - then that's legitimate for me.
"[He has to] let his thoughts mature that Bayern Munich is the club where he wants to continue. That is legitimate."
Kimmich has made 32 appearances for Bayern during the 2024-25 campaign, scoring one goal and registering nine assists in the process, and he has primarily been used in central midfield by Vincent Kompany this term.
As of January, Kimmich is free to enter into talks with foreign clubs over a pre-contract, but the German is said to be taking his time before making a decision on his future, as his next move is likely to be his last in terms of another European club.
As a free agent, the midfielder would command a substantial signing-on fee, in addition to huge wages, but it is believed that money is far from the driving factor when it comes to what is a major decision.
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Which club is best-placed to sign Kimmich?
Liverpool are believed to have been in touch with Kimmich's representatives to discuss a move, with the Reds seemingly at the head of the queue for his services.
The Reds are in need of a central midfielder, and it appears that Real Sociedad's Martin Zubimendi will be heading for Arsenal this summer, with Liverpool therefore being forced to look elsewhere.
Man United will only be genuine contenders if they are able to win the Europa League and secure Champions League football for next season, while a switch to Spain cannot be ruled out for the midfielder.
One thing is for certain, Kimmich will not be short of offers, as he is one of the leading midfielders in world football, and it is not difficult to understand why Bayern are so reluctant to let a player of his ilk leave on a free transfer.
Matt Law
