Breaking news at VfB Stuttgart: Could Alexander Nübel now pave the way for a dream transfer to FC Bayern?

A permanent move to VfB Stuttgart is now off the cards. Nübel is unwilling to accept a substantial pay cut. He currently earns €11 million per year, with €7 million covered by FC Bayern under the loan agreement. Meanwhile, the Swabians plan to start the coming season with Dennis Seimen, currently on loan at SC Paderborn, as their new number one.

The 20-year-old U21 international has impressed this season with the East Westphalians, especially in Thursday's first-leg play-off win over VfL Wolfsburg. "Everyone sees it the same way: the support Dennis gives us is outstanding. I've never seen anything like it," enthused teammate Laurin Curda after the match.

Seimen himself has not yet received any official word from VfB, as he confirmed. "It obviously depends on Alexander Nübel and what he does, and what the people in charge in Stuttgart want," he clarified, adding, "It's not up to me at the moment."

Sporting director Christoph Freund recently hinted that Nübel no longer has a future at the German record champions, despite having a contract running until 2030 and in light of Manuel Neuer's latest contract extension. "We've held talks with his management and Alex is aware of our plans," Freund stated after Saturday's Bundesliga clash with 1. FC Köln, referring to Neuer, his deputy Jonas Urbig and Sven Ulreich. "We're going into next season with this trio of goalkeepers; that's the plan."

Nevertheless, a final decision on Nübel's future may not come until late summer, with concrete talks between Bayern and suitors likely to start only after the DFB Cup final against VfB Stuttgart. The club hopes a Premier League suitor will emerge, securing both a sizeable transfer fee for Bayern and a competitive salary for the keeper. 

His exit would also free up salary-cap space for other targets, such as Anthony Gordon, and could even act as a bargaining chip in talks with Newcastle United.

Recent reports suggest the Magpies are planning a goalkeeping overhaul, with Sky claiming they have targeted RC Lens' Robin Risser at a cost of €30–40m.

Brighton & Hove Albion could also be in the market if Bart Verbruggen departs, and Freiburg's Noah Atubolu has recently been linked with both clubs.