Barcelona, Bayern, or beyond: Joshua Kimmich to make transfer decision in January

• Joshua Kimmich will decide his future in January, with interest from top clubs like Barcelona and reports of a potential contract extension at Bayern
• Kimmich, who thrives in midfield under Vincent Kompany, has yet to renew his Bayern contract expiring in June 2025
• Barcelona is keen on signing him as Frenkie de Jong’s replacement, while Arsenal, Liverpool, and others are monitoring his situation

Bayern Munich’s Joshua Kimmich has confirmed his plans to resolve his future in winter, amid ongoing speculation linking the soon-to-be free agent with Europe’s elite clubs.

Kimmich, 29, has started every game under Vincent Kompany this season, primarily playing in midfield. Although he remains one of the world's best right-backs when required in defence, he has exclusively featured in his preferred central role. 

Under Bayern's previous coach, Thomas Tuchel, Kimmich often found himself in an unfavored defensive position, with Tuchel repeatedly voicing his desire for a holding midfielder role. Despite his prominent role in Kompany’s squad, Kimmich has yet to extend his contract, which expires in June 2025.

Speaking to the press, Kimmich revealed, 

“I will not wait until summer. I will sit down in winter, look at the bigger picture, and make the right decision.”

Barcelona has emerged as a frontrunner for Kimmich’s signature, eyeing him as a replacement for Frenkie de Jong, who has reportedly been placed on the transfer list. In October, Kimmich refused to rule out a move to the Catalan giants, fueling the growing speculation.

The versatile German has also attracted interest from Arsenal, Liverpool, Manchester City, Real Madrid, and Paris Saint-Germain. However, reports from Germany suggest that Kimmich might be leaning toward signing a new deal with Bayern instead of departing the Allianz Arena.

The Bundesliga's winter break, spanning December 20 to January 11, gives Kimmich ample time to weigh his options. Bayern Munich, currently leading the Bundesliga standings, are pushing to reclaim the title from Bayer Leverkusen. The Bavarian giants also remain in contention for automatic qualification to the Champions League’s knockout stages.

For now, Kimmich is focused on Bayern’s current campaign. The team faces a pivotal clash against Boniface’s Leverkusen in the DFB-Pokal quarterfinals today, December 3, a match that could define their domestic dominance under Kompany.

Leroy Sané to Arsenal? Arteta eyes Bayern star to bolster Gunners’ attack

Previously, TheRadar reported that Premier League side Arsenal reportedly wants to bring Bayern Munich winger Leroy Sané back to the Premier League, seizing on his uncertain contract situation at the German club. 

The potential signing would not only strengthen the squad but also prove Arsenal’s commitment to building a side capable of challenging for major trophies.