Arsenal Football Club is intensifying its pursuit of Bayern Munich's midfielder, Joshua Kimmich, after news emerged of Bayern withdrawing their contract offer. Kimmich, who has been pivotal at Bayern for several years, sees his future now more uncertain as he nears the end of his contract this summer. Reports from various sources, including Sky Germany and Sky Sports, affirm Arsenal’s proactive steps to secure Kimmich on a free transfer, making him a potential replacement for Jorginho, whose contract also expires at the end of this season.
According to recent reports, Arsenal has held discussions with Kimmich's representatives, marking them as serious contenders for his signature. This heightened interest follows Bayern Munich's decision to retract their offer to Kimmich, which would have seen him earning between €20-22 million annually until 2028. The contract was withdrawn after the club grew frustrated with the midfielder’s indecision about extending his stay at the Allianz Arena.
Florian Plettenberg of Sky Germany reported, "For several days, Arsenal FC has been one of the clubs with concrete interest in Joshua Kimmich and have held talks." The negotiations signify Arsenal's awareness of the potential upheaval within their squad, especially with both Jorginho and Thomas Partey likely leaving after this season.
Kimmich's hesitation to renew his contract at Bayern is significantly influenced by offers from outside Germany. So far, he has received two formal contracts from clubs abroad, including one from the Premier League, which Arsenal is closely tracking. His adaptability and high-caliber skills make him attractive, as Arsenal prepares for potentially significant departures amid their midfield overhaul.
While conversations with Boca's Martín Zubimendi are reportedly at the forefront of Arsenal's plans—Zubimendi being seen as the first-choice candidate—Kimmich remains attractive due to his extensive experience and versatility. At 30, Kimmich brings ten years of top-flight experience, having accumulated 435 appearances for Bayern, contributing 43 goals and helping the club capture numerous titles, including eight Bundesliga championships.
His capacity to operate effectively as both a central midfielder and right-back adds to Arsenal’s depth, especially during demanding interceptions of the season. Manager Mikel Arteta is under pressure to reconfigure his midfield, and signing Kimmich could provide immediate reinforcement to stabilize the squad.
PSG has also emerged as another strong contender for Kimmich's signature, having shown consistent interest since last summer. The French club had previously attempted to negotiate with Kimmich, but he declined, opting to remain with Bayern at the time. Sources indicate PSG is closely monitoring the situation, ready to step up their bid if Kimmich’s future remains uncertain.
The situation has quotes from both Kimmich’s camp and Bayern’s management stressing the possibility of reaching some agreement, with Bayern expressing readiness to negotiate anew, albeit under less favorable terms than before. Reportedly, Kimmich’s entourage insists the decision revolves around the best long-term option for the player. Plettenberg emphasized, "Kimmich is not making a play for more money, but is heavily considering offers from Arsenal and other unnamed clubs."
Despite concerns from some Arsenal fans about the necessity of securing Kimmich with seemingly more urgent needs for other positions, the ability to sign such an experienced player for free could be seen as shrewd business. Past Champions League performances have shown Kimmich to be instrumental, showcasing creativity and leadership qualities beneficial at any club.
With rising scrutiny on what is expected to be Arsenal’s most significant summer remodeling yet, Kimmich’s transfer saga adds yet another layer of anticipation and pressure within the club. Supporters hope the Gunners can act decisively, maintaining momentum after previous transfer windows’ successes.
Overall, as the transfer window inches closer, Kimmich’s potential arrival is not just about filling spaces but enhancing the existing squad dynamic, underlining Arsenal's strategic planning and foresight as they prepare for the fierce competition anticipated next season. The club aims to fulfill aspirations for silverware by ensuring the right blend of youthful exuberance and veteran savvy, with Kimmich undeniably profiling as the latter.
What remains to be seen is whether Arsenal can finalize this move quickly enough to stave off interest from other clubs and whether Kimmich will envision his future wearing the red and white of Arsenal.