Bayern Munich linked with a move for England star
Bayern Munich have to potentially start preparing for life after Manuel Neuer. The veteran German goalkeeper has hinted at retiring from football at the end of the season. He signed a one-year contract extension at Bayern earlier this year, but this could be his final campaign at the top level.
Die Roten have a replacement lined up as the club chiefs are backing Jonas Urbig to succeed Neuer. The former FC Köln goalkeeper has done well in limited opportunities since arriving at Bayern 18 months ago. Bayern chiefs have publicly backed Urbig to replace Neuer in the long run.
Along with Neuer, Sven Ulreich could also hang up his boots at the end of the season. Ulreich has been playing as the number three in the squad. He had signed a one-year contract extension along with Neuer at the end of last season.
Die Roten will have to sign an experienced goalkeeper to ensure Urbig has quality backup. They have been linked with Bundesliga goalkeepers in the last couple of weeks. However, murmurs in England have suggested that Die Roten are contemplating a move for a Premier League star.
According to English journalist Alan Nixon (via Givemesport), Bayern are exploring a move for Everton star Jordon Pickford. The Bavarian club has been doing the groundwork to understand a move for Pickford, while also having the likes of Brighton shot-stopper Bart Verbruggen on their shortlist.
Pickford has three years left on his current contract at Everton. The England star’s wages are also significant, so it will be a big investment from Die Roten to pursue a move for him. From Pickford’s perspective, it will be an attractive opportunity as he will get the chance to compete for the biggest trophies and play in the Champions League.
Pickford’s signing will block Urbig’s pathway at Bayern
The 32-year-old English goalkeeper has been a fine player for Everton over the last nine years. He certainly has the qualities to play for top teams in Europe. However, signing Pickford wouldn’t make sense for Bayern if they want Urbig to be the long-term goalkeeper of the first team.
Jordan Pickford will seek assurances to be the number one, which will significantly reduce Urbig's playing time. Considering Urbig’s performances over the last 18 months, Bayern will be better served by playing him regularly and developing him as the next big goalkeeper in Germany after Manuel Neuer. Bayern need a low profile and reliable backup goalkeeper who can be the backup for Urbig instead of an outright number one contender.
