Bayern Munich hit with another transfer setback after €40m bid for Stuttgart star Nick Woltemade is rejected

Stuttgart, who are under no financial pressure to sell, have placed an €80m (£69m/$94m) price tag on Woltemade, effectively double of Bayern’s opening bid. With the player tied to a long-term contract that runs until 2028, the Swabians are in a commanding position and are not entertaining offers that fail to meet their valuation.

Bayern’s eagerness to secure Woltemade is partly driven by a fresh injury crisis involving star midfielder Jamal Musiala. The Germany international suffered a devastating setback during the Club World Cup quarter-final clash with Paris Saint-Germain in the United States as he has reportedly fractured his left fibula and damaged multiple ligaments, sidelining him for up to five months.

As their approach for Woltemade stalls, Bayern have shifted focus to alternate targets, including Liverpool’s Luis Díaz. Reports suggest the Bavarian giants have submitted an initial proposal worth €52m (£45m/$61m) for the Colombian winger. However, Liverpool remain resolute and have rejected the offer, reiterating their €80m valuation.

As Bayern prepare for a demanding new campaign, they find themselves in an increasingly precarious situation. Their targets, both Woltemade and Díaz, are proving difficult to acquire, with their respective clubs playing hardball and pointing to long-term contracts.

The pressure is on Bayern’s hierarchy to deliver reinforcements, particularly with one of their most creative talents out of action for nearly half the season. Unless Bayern are prepared to break the bank or shift targets altogether, their quest for reinforcements may continue to be met with resistance well into the transfer window.