Joshua Kimmich has made Manchester City his preferred destination if he leaves Bayern Munich this summer, according to the Daily Star (via The Express).
It has been widely reported that the German international would only consider joining five teams: Barcelona, Real Madrid, Arsenal, Liverpool and the Cityzens.
However, Kimmich is believed to favour a switch to the Etihad, where he would link up with his former manager Pep Guardiola.
The Daily Star clam that Guardiola is also keen to reunite with the 29-year-old; nine years after signing him for Bayern back in 2015.
What are the chances of City signing the player?
Kimmich is now within the final year of his contract and reports suggest that negotiations over an extension have not taken place. It is looking increasingly likely that he will leave the Allianz Arena.
Bayern are reportedly unwilling to let the German depart on a free transfer next year, and they are open to selling him before the current transfer window closes.
How much will Kimmich cost?
Due to his contract situation, Bayern cannot demand a substantial fee for the midfielder. It is believed £30m could be enough to secure his signature.
With Kimmich seemingly keen on making the switch to the Etihad, it is now up to City’s recruitment team to decide whether they want to snap him up. The fact that Guardiola is in favour of the move doesn’t necessarily mean a transfer will go ahead. There are other factors to consider.
Kimmich earns £318,000 a week at Bayern and, if he requests a similar salary at the Premier League champions, he would become the club’s third-highest earner. That’s a lot for a player who is closing in on 30 and City would have to seriously weigh up the pros and cons of such a purchase.
