Bayern Munich appears to have a leading candidate in mind to help usher in the Jonas Urbig era, should Manuel Neuer retire at the end of the season. And it is a familiar Bundesliga face who currently sits at the top of the club’s shortlist.
According to Sky Germany journalist Florian Plettenberg (as captured by @iMiaSanMia), Oliver Baumann is Bayern’s preferred candidate to serve as Urbig’s backup next season. From a profile perspective, the 36-year-old fits what the club is looking for: an experienced,
dependable goalkeeper who can provide support and competition without necessarily demanding the starting position.
That last part, however, could be the sticking point. Baumann is still Hoffenheim’s No. 1 and has another significant personal ambition: chasing the Bundesliga appearance record. He currently sits 70 appearances short of the mark, meaning a move to Munich could put that pursuit in jeopardy if he is expected to spend most of his time on the bench.
Baumann is not Bayern’s only option, either. Bernd Leno is also high on the shortlist. His contract at Fulham is due to expire, although the Premier League club holds a unilateral option to extend it. Leno can reportedly imagine a move to Munich, making him an intriguing alternative.
Loris Karius is another name under consideration. Bayern have taken notice of his performances for Schalke this season, and the 32-year-old reportedly fits the desired profile.
Bayern’s priority is clear: find an experienced goalkeeper who can support Urbig without disrupting his development. Finding someone willing to accept that particular assignment might be considerably more difficult.
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