Joshua Kimmich on the move? Bayern director casts doubt on Germany star's future as he enters final year of contract

Speculation has been rife throughout the summer that Kimmich could leave the German side this summer. The 29-year-old has evasive when discussing his future in April but admitted that Barcelona and Real Madrid, both of whom he's been linked with, are "amazing clubs". A reunion with former Bayern boss Pep Guardiola at Manchester City has also been mooted.

Kimmich voiced his frustration more than once last season, even labelling Bayern's struggles against top teams "stupid" as they relinquished their stranglehold on the Bundesliga to Bayer Leverkusen. The Bavarians are now heading in a new direction under Vincent Kompany, which may have further dampened any desire on Kimmich's part to commit his future to the club, but Eberl has made it clear that Bayern themselves may think it's best to move on from the versatile player.

"Joshua is a very good player, but it is generally true that professional football is a competitive sport - we cannot say to any player per se: 'Hey, you are the one who is going to play,'" Eberl told Welt am Sonntag. "I'm just saying what applies to everyone. We have exciting players in all positions and therefore many alternatives."

Bayern have added depth in defensive midfield and at right-back - Kimmich's best positions - in the form of Fulham star Joao Palhinha and Josip Stanisic, who has returned from a loan spell at Leverkusen.

Kimmich remains on holiday following his efforts for Germany at Euro 2024. Talks over his future with Eberl and Kompany will take place upon his return.