Latest developments
- Real Madrid target Joshua Kimmich is in line to become a free agent this summer.
- Liverpool are interested in the German international.
- At the moment, Real are leading the race for his signature.
Whisper+ analysis
Authenticity (3.5/5): Real chasing Kimmich
Real Madrid are following Joshua Kimmich, and the Bernabeu is considered his most likely destination in the summer, should the Germany international fail to extend his contract at Bayern Munich. It is also believed that Liverpool are interested too, but they are behind Los Blancos in the race.
The story comes from BILD journalist Christian Falk, who says Real's chief scout Juni Calafat enquired about Kimmich and both sides want to stay in touch.
Value (3/5): Huge wage demands
Multiple reports have suggested one of the reasons Bayern haven't managed to agree a new deal with the 29-year-old is his demand for a £15.5 million gross salary per season.
As seen during the Mbappe saga, Real aren't shy of spending big on wages to lure top talents, but considering Kimmich's age, he may have to lower his demands to secure a move to Santiago Bernabeu.
Suitability (4/5): Experience and versatility
While Kimmich's age works against him, the experience he brings is going to be key in helping him impress Carlo Ancelotti, who could do with a stable midfield presence following Toni Kroos' retirement.
Kimmich is capable of playing as a lone holding midfielder, which is something that Aurelien Tchouameni has struggled to do. Further, he could also play as a right-back should Real fail in their pursuit of Trent Alexander-Arnold, who is likely to cost more in sign-on fees and wages.
Upgrade? (4/5): Challenge for Tchouameni and Carvajal
Kimmich's versatility means he could challenge both Tchouameni for the midfield role and Dani Carvajal for the right-back position under Ancelotti. The legendary manager has already seen Kimmich's composure in possession and positional awareness during his time as Bayern's manager. As such, expect him to place his trust in the German from the get-go.
Logic (4/5): Big move
Real are an appealing destination for any player in world football. Kimmich has won everything there is to win at the club level at Bayern and a move to sunny Spain could be perfect for the ageing star if he is looking for a new experience without compromising on the pursuit of major trophies.
Whisper+ verdict: 18.5/25
Calafat has allegedly already touched base, suggesting the Spanish giants are keen on Kimmich. However, Bayern could still influence the saga by meeting the player's salary demands.
