Joshua Kimmich is set to extend his stay at Bayern Munich with a new three-year contract, ending months of speculation about his future. The 30-year-old German national team captain had been approaching the final year of his existing deal, which was due to expire in summer 2025.
According to sources close to the negotiations, an agreement in principle has been reached that will keep Kimmich at the Allianz Arena until 2028, concluding what had become a protracted saga between the player and club.
The situation had appeared to reach an impasse as recently as last week, with members of Bayern's supervisory board expressing frustration over Kimmich's indecision. The club had even withdrawn their most recent contract offer after a deadline for its acceptance had passed.
As a potential free agent, Kimmich had attracted significant interest from Premier League and La Liga clubs. The midfielder was reportedly intrigued by the prospect of a new challenge after nearly a decade at Bayern, having joined the club in 2015.
However, discussions between Kimmich and Bayern's leadership team continued over the weekend. Max Eberl, Bayern's board member for sport, and Christoph Freund, the sports director, managed to finalize terms with the player.
Freund recently spoke highly of Kimmich, saying: "It's important for us to work in a calm and focused way. With Jo, you can see that he feels comfortable, that any unrest that could be brought in doesn't come in."
He added: "He was injured going into the game against Leverkusen, wasn't in a rhythm but was straight back on it. What he delivered there shows that he feels comfortable here. There will be a decision soon."
The sports director also praised Kimmich's character and communication skills: "All parties are in good dialogue. There was never anything in between. You can feel that when you see the energy in the team. That's the most important thing. He doesn't hide away on the pitch, even in tough moments. And he doesn't hide it either. It's extraordinary. He's a reflective, very intelligent guy who communicates very well internally and externally."
This extension represents a significant positive for Bayern Munich and head coach Vincent Kompany. Kimmich has been a cornerstone of the team's success, winning the Champions League in 2020 along with numerous domestic trophies during his tenure.
With Manuel Neuer having signed an extension until 2025, Kimmich is positioned to become Bayern's next captain - a succession plan that has already been made clear within the club.
His leadership will be particularly valuable as Bayern's squad continues to evolve with younger talents. Players like Jamal Musiala, Michael Olise, Alphonso Davies, and Aleksandar Pavlovic are becoming increasingly prominent, making Kimmich's experience and seniority all the more important.
On the pitch, Kimmich has been in excellent form since being restored to his natural midfield position this season after playing predominantly as a right-back under former coach Thomas Tuchel. His performance in Bayern's 3-0 Champions League victory over Bayer Leverkusen was particularly noteworthy, demonstrating his continued technical excellence.
While competition for midfield spots at Bayern will remain fierce - with Pavlovic emerging as a talent, alongside options like Joao Palhinha, Konrad Laimer, and Leon Goretzka, plus the upcoming arrival of highly-rated Tom Bischof from TSG Hoffenheim - Kimmich's departure would have left a significant void in both quality and experience.
For Bayern, the extension provides continuity and retains a crucial senior figure. For Kimmich, despite the temptation of exploring other leagues, he maintains his revered position within the squad and will soon inherit the captain's armband - an outcome that appears sensible for all parties involved.
The Germany international has made 37 appearances across all competitions for Bayern this season, contributing one goal and providing ten assists.
