According to the incredibly reliable David Ornstein of The Athletic, Bayern Munich have made Harry Kane the highest paid player in Europe. With a new contract set to run until 2029, the England captain and Ballon d’Or winner has been given the most lucrative contract in FC Bayern history.
The article quotes anonymous sources privy to the deal, who say that Kane is now the highest paid player in Europe in pure salary terms. Some players may earn more due to bonuses, but no one will make more guaranteed
money than Kane.
This represents an incredible vote of confidence in the 33-year-old and his longevity, given how Bayern Munich are traditionally reluctant to hand out multi-year deals to older players. It will also represent a benchmark in the industry, especially when players like Michael Olise begin talks for a fresh contract some time in 2027.
You have to wonder how much winning the Ballon d’Or factors into this new deal. The negotiations dragged on for months, only to wrap up a week after Kane won the biggest individual prize in football. Winning would have given the England captain immense leverage in final negotiations, perhaps leading to this outstanding new contract.
This deal also sends a message across Europe. Bayern Munich may lack the TV money of the Premier League or a wealthy state-backed owner, but the club is in excellent financial health and can afford to spend lavish sums to keep established talent. Teams like Real Madrid or FC Barcelona will think twice about trying to poach talent from FC Bayern, given the costs involved.
It also tells existing players and prospective transfers that they can come to Germany and still enjoy the comforts of a massive contract and Ballon d’Or level exposure. That itself may be worth the money spent on keeping Kane happy. If you want Ballon d’Or level talent, you need to pay for it.
As for bonuses, Kane probably nabbed a Ballon d’Or clause and additional benefits for winning the Champions League and the European top scorer award. Where would that put his total salary compared to his peers? We will find out more as these details come to light.
Join the conversation!
Sign up for a user account and get:
- New, improved notifications system!
- Fewer ads
- Create community posts
- Comment on articles, community posts
- Rec comments, community posts
