Bayern Munich is starting to brace itself for life after Manuel Neuer, with the legendary goalkeeper anticipated to hang up his gloves at the end of the season. Sven Ulreich may also decide to call it a day.
The club hierarchy has publicly backed Jonas Urbig as Neuer's long-term successor. The young shot-stopper has impressed during his year and a half at the Bavarians. However, whispers from England suggest Bayern are keen on securing a high-profile signing.
According to journalist Alan Nixon, Bayern is exploring the possibility of acquiring Everton's Jordan Pickford. Also on their shortlist is Bart Verbruggen from Brighton.
At 32, Pickford has three years left on his contract with the English club. His hefty salary means that any transfer will require significant financial investment. For Pickford himself, this presents a prime opportunity to chase silverware and compete in the Champions League.
However, bringing in a high-calibre player like Pickford could hinder Urbig’s chances of first-team action, as the England international would demand assurances of being the number one. Experts suggest that Bayern would be wiser to focus on ensuring regular playing time for Urbig while signing a reliable but less prominent goalkeeper as a backup.
