Bayern Munich opt to keep faith with star-studded defence before transfer deadline

Bayern Munich do not plan to make further defensive additions before the transfer deadline, with the club satisfied that Dayot Upamecano, Jonathan Tah and Kim Min-jae provide enough quality and depth at centre-back.

The decision has been influenced in part by Upamecano’s contract situation. The France international began the final year of his previous agreement with interest from Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid, but Bayern secured his long-term future in January and successfully resisted approaches from both clubs.

Upamecano was one of Bayern’s standout performers last season, when he developed an effective partnership with Tah. The Germany international had joined from Bayer Leverkusen on a free transfer during the previous summer and also made a strong impression in his first campaign at the club.

Bayern had previously been willing to consider offers for Kim, but the South Korea international was determined to remain in Munich. His impressive start to the new season has strengthened the club’s belief that retaining him is the right decision.

Sporting director Max Eberl says Bayern are fortunate to have three defenders capable of performing at the highest level. He also believes Kim has regained the consistency that made him such an important player.

“It’s simply the situation we have with Jona, Upa and Min-Jae. We now have three clear centre-backs, all three world-class, you have to say that,” said Eberl.

“I think there are certainly quite a few clubs who envy us for the quality of these three players. Of course, we’re going to need all of our players given the sheer number of matches. Min-Jae really became much more stable and consistent last season, and he’s continuing that now.”

Japanese international Hiroki Ito gives Bayern further cover. The versatile defender can operate at centre-back or at left-back, offering an option across more than one position.

Ito’s involvement has been limited by injuries since moving to Bayern, but he now appears likely to stay at the club. His ability to provide cover should prove valuable as Bayern compete across several fronts and face a demanding schedule.

Rather than strengthening in central defence, Bayern have directed their summer spending towards other areas of the squad. The club have invested 110 million euros in Nathaniel Brown and Ismael Saibari, with the pair brought in to improve the full-back, attacking and midfield positions.

Eberl’s assessment means Bayern will enter the final stages of the transfer window relying on their established central defensive options. Upamecano, Tah and Kim are expected to carry much of the responsibility, while Ito provides additional flexibility when required.

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