Arsenal Football Club has taken significant steps to pursue German international Joshua Kimmich as he nears the end of his contract with Bayern Munich. Discussions between Arsenal and Kimmich have taken place amid uncertainty surrounding the midfielder's future at the Bavarian club. With Kimmich's current contract set to expire at the end of June, the Gunners are aiming to capitalize on the situation.
Talks have intensified lately as Bayern Munich reportedly withdrew their latest contract offer for the versatile 30-year-old, sparking speculation about his next move. Kimmich’s hesitation to sign a new deal has opened the door for several clubs, with Arsenal reportedly expressing concrete interest. According to talkSPORT, "We've held talks with Joshua Kimmich over a potential free transfer..." signaling their ambitions to secure the talented midfielder.
Kimmich has been with Bayern since 2015, where he has made over 400 appearances and garnered numerous accolades, including eight Bundesliga titles and one Champions League trophy. His impressive track record has made him one of the top midfielders not just in Germany but across Europe. Yet, with the potential of leaving Bayern after nearly ten years, Kimmich finds himself at a crossroads.
The immediate concern for Arsenal lies within their existing midfield ranks. Both veteran midfielder Jorginho and fellow player Thomas Partey are set to depart as their contracts expire this summer. Jorginho recently said, "My contract is until June and my goal now is to think about the next game..." addressing the uncertainty surrounding his future at the club.
Arsenal’s interest could signal their intention to refresh their squad after what has been described as underwhelming performances this season. Manager Mikel Arteta appears determined to strengthen his team, and Kimmich is viewed as not only suitable depth for the midfield but also as someone who could excel in one of the inverted full-back roles, central to Arteta's tactical approach.
While Arsenal is optimistic about securing Kimmich, they are not the only club circling. Bayern Munich has hinted at continuity, indicating they still wish to negotiate terms with Kimmich. Max Eberl, Bayern’s sporting director, mentioned, "That’s legitimate," referring to Kimmich's wish for clarity about his future. Bayern had previously tabled a three-year deal worth around £375,000 per week, reflecting their desire to keep him at the club.
Meanwhile, Kimmich has made Bayern aware of offers he has received from abroad, including interest from another Premier League side. This reinforces the sense of competition Arsenal faces if they wish to sign him this summer.
Arsenal's strategy does not revolve solely around Kimmich; they are also eyeing other midfield targets. Reports indicate the club is close to finalizing the signing of Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad for approximately £51 million, which would provide additional reinforcement to their midfield.
Despite the heightened activity surrounding transfer talks, the Gunners are conscious of the need to sell players before they can effectively buy. Several current members of the squad face uncertain futures, including Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Martinelli, with interest from clubs both domestically and abroad.
Kimmich’s experience and ability to adapt to various roles on the pitch would undoubtedly bring value to Arsenal. Over his decade at Bayern, he has developed his game extensively, gaining recognition as one of the key figures both defensively and offensively. While primarily used as a defensive midfielder, he is also proficient as a right-back—an asset highlighted by reports indicating Liverpool and Manchester City are also monitoring his situation.
Should Kimmich choose to make the move to North London, it could represent not just the ideal way to consolidate Arsenal's midfield but also reinvigorate their quest to return to the top of the Premier League. Fans are eager to see how Arteta reshapes the squad after falling short of winning the title again this season.
With Kimmich’s versatility and proficiency, he might just be the catalyst Arsenal needs to spark a new title challenge next season. The Gunners will undoubtedly work aggressively over the coming months to secure his services before the intense summer transfer window opens. Though there remains pressure from Bayern to retain Kimmich, the allure of joining Arsenal, coupled with the promise of regular first-team football amid potential midfield overhaul, makes this situation one to watch closely.