Harry Kane's new understudy? Bayern Munich targeting 15-goal Bundesliga striker to play back-up to England hitman

According to Sky Sport Germany, Mainz forward Jonathan Burkardt has appeared on Bayern's transfer radar ahead of the summer. The 24-year-old is described as "one of several" options the Bundesliga giants are looking at to serve as a back-up to chief goal-scorer Kane. Burkardt is considered affordable and is also favourably represented by the same agency as Bayern skipper Manuel Neuer.

After previously enjoying a breakout season in 2021-22, Burkardt has come storming back in 2024-25 following a long-term injury that affected his two previous campaigns. His 15 Bundesliga goals have Mainz third in the table and seriously in the hunt for unprecedented Champions League qualification, but he will shortly enter the final two years of his contract. Even if Bayern don't formalise their interest, Burkardt isn't likely to be short of suitors, with Bayer Leverkusen, Eintracht Frankfurt and unnamed Premier League clubs said to be pursuing him.

"I can imagine that European Cup matches with Mainz 05 would be a motivation for Jonny," sporting director Niko Bungert recently told German media, referencing the club being on course to dine at the continent's top table come the autumn.

If not Burkardt, a striker is an important part of Bayern's recruitment puzzle ahead of next season. Thomas Muller, due to turn 36 in September, has occasionally filled in for Kane, but the squad's attacking make-up beyond the 32-goal England captain is primarily wingers and No.10-type players. Mathys Tel had served that role in the first half of the season, but was loaned to Tottenham Hotspur in January and wasn't replaced.