With Declan Rice likely to be a confirmed Arsenal player sooner rather than later, it seems as though the sight of England’s premier ‘number six’ joining the ranks of Bayern Munich defensive midfielders will remain a fantasy – at least for the next several years.
Of course, the summer is still yet young, but last season’s title race was far too close for comfort. There’s also the fact that Bayern – quite unlike previous years – conceded 30+ goals for the fifth season running. That means some extra support for the backline surely wouldn’t go amiss.
Meanwhile, other names with Premier League pedigree, such as Kalvin Phillips and ex-Bavarian Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg, have been met with mixed reactions. Naturally, a fair degree of this is down to the price inflation that comes with just about any Premier League player.
But if Bayern cast the net wider, they may well find that a valuable number six for a more reasonable price. These three players could provide a more cost-effective solution if Thomas Tuchel has to break the bank to finally acquire Harry Kane.
With annual Champions League football practically guaranteed, and all preseason odds pointing at a twelfth straight crown. Bayern should have no trouble with courting, and winning, the three names you are about to see.