Bayern Munich have withdrawn their contract offer to Joshua Kimmich, putting the Arsenal-linked midfielder on course for a free transfer amid Premier League interest.
Bayern Munich have withdrawn their contract offer to Joshua Kimmich, opening the door for a potential move to the Premier League, with Arsenal among the clubs monitoring the situation.
The decision marks a dramatic shift in negotiations, as the German club had been locked in talks with the 30-year-old midfielder for months in an effort to secure his long-term future.
“Kimmich made his decision to remain at Bayern,” reports in Germany had previously claimed, but Bayern’s stance has now reportedly changed.
Despite Vincent Kompany continuing to rely on him as a key starter, Bayern’s hierarchy has decided against increasing their proposal, informing Kimmich that the current offer is no longer on the table.
The development leaves Kimmich with just four months remaining on his contract, allowing him to negotiate a free transfer with clubs across Europe. Liverpool, Manchester City, Real Madrid, and Barcelona have also been linked with the German international, but Arsenal’s name has repeatedly surfaced as a potential destination.
With Mikel Arteta intent on reinforcing his midfield and adding experience to a young squad, but with a limited budget, Kimmich’s technical quality, leadership, and versatility make him a particularly attractive target. Capable of excelling as a defensive midfielder, a deep-lying playmaker, or even as a right-back, he fits seamlessly into Arteta’s tactical vision.
Bayern’s withdrawal of their contract offer signals a major shift in their squad planning, with other high-profile names such as Leroy Sané, Alphonso Davies, and Thomas Müller also facing uncertain futures. While Bayern have successfully extended contracts for Jamal Musiala and Davies, Kimmich’s future now appears increasingly likely to lie elsewhere.
Arsenal, who have been searching for a midfield addition to complement Declan Rice, have long admired Kimmich’s skill set. His ability to dictate tempo, break opposition lines with incisive passing, and provide defensive security makes him a rare commodity. The opportunity to sign a player of his stature on a free transfer is one that Arsenal’s recruitment team will surely be evaluating closely.
Meanwhile, the situation at Bayern continues to evolve. Reports indicate that while Kimmich has offers from multiple top clubs, he has yet to make a final decision, preferring to assess his options as the season nears its conclusion. However, with Bayern now officially withdrawing their proposal, the likelihood of a summer departure has never been higher.
For Arsenal, the potential arrival of Kimmich would send a strong message to both domestic and European rivals. With Liverpool stretching their lead at the top of the Premier League and Manchester City trying to get themselves together, the Gunners must ensure their squad continues to evolve. Kimmich, a player accustomed to winning, could be the type of signing that elevates Arsenal to the next level.
The next few months will be decisive, but with Bayern no longer standing in his way, Kimmich’s availability has just made Arsenal’s summer transfer window all the more intriguing.