Bayern Munich’s Strategic Approach Ahead of Winter Transfer Window

According to the German outlet Bild,

Bayern Munich does not anticipate making any signings during the upcoming winter transfer window, even in the event that Sacha Boey leaves the club in January. The Bavarians believe their squad is adequately equipped for the remainder of the season, opting to prioritize long-term planning over short-term solutions. Last summer, Bayern acquired Jackson on deadline day as a backup for Harry Kane. However, despite the forward’s three goals and one assist, the club remains unconvinced about activating his €65 million (£56 million/$75 million) purchase option. Consequently, they may allow his loan to expire without triggering the clause.

Instead, Bayern is focusing on 21-year-old striker Franculino from Midtjylland as a potential understudy for Kane. The young forward has made a significant impact this season, netting 19 goals and providing three assists in 26 appearances, thereby establishing himself as one of Europe’s most promising attacking talents. Additionally, Bayern is monitoring Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic as a possible alternative to Kane. With the Serbian entering the final year of his contract and potentially available as a free agent next summer, he is viewed as a robust long-term option to strengthen their attacking line. For the time being, however, Vlahovic is considered a secondary target, with Franculino being the primary focus.

Bayern’s exceptional start to the season has seen them sustain an unbeaten streak across 16 matches in all competitions, including the Bundesliga, DFB-Pokal, DFB-Supercup, and Champions League. This achievement is particularly noteworthy given the departures of key attackers such as Leroy Sane, Kingsley Coman, and Thomas Muller, along with missed opportunities for transfer targets like Nick Woltemade and Rafael Leao.

In spite of these challenges, Vincent Kompany has successfully developed a coherent playing strategy grounded in perseverance, collective understanding, and fluid attacking movements. His system has maximized the potential of Harry Kane, who has reached remarkable scoring heights. Kane’s recent goal against Club Brugge in the Champions League marks his 20th goal in just 12 matches—an extraordinary milestone that neither Cristiano Ronaldo nor Lionel Messi achieved at such a rapid pace.

As Bayern prepares for the future, they face a challenging task in extending Dayot Upamecano’s contract, which is set to expire in 2026. The club is under pressure, particularly with Real Madrid expressing strong interest in the French defender and making initial contact with his representatives. Bayern hopes that Kompany, who has quickly gained the trust of the players, can help persuade Upamecano to commit to the club.

Nevertheless, they are also preparing for the possibility that he may choose not to renew his contract. Bayern has identified Borussia Dortmund’s Nico Schlotterbeck as a potential replacement. While Schlotterbeck’s contract runs until 2027, he has not committed to an extension, making him a feasible target.

Additionally, Bayern is keeping an eye on Liverpool’s Ibrahima Konate and Crystal Palace center-back Marc Guehi as alternative options, ensuring robust defensive coverage should Upamecano decide to leave.

Bayern is eager to secure Upamecano’s contract extension as soon as possible, as he has become a cornerstone under Vincent Kompany’s management. Meanwhile, Jackson will aim to impress both the manager and the club hierarchy to solidify his role as the ideal backup option. Kompany is likely utilizing the international break to evaluate his squad’s depth, plan effective rotations, and introduce innovative tactical strategies. With these foundations in place, Bayern remains fully committed to their ambitious goal of competing for—and potentially winning—the treble this season.

The German champions are set to host St. Pauli as club football resumes after the international break.