For the always well-informed Gianluca Di Marzio, the entire transfer summer is naturally a busy time. Nevertheless, he took the time for us betting fans to answer some burning questions about the hottest transfer rumors.
This time, the focus is on the transfer targets of FC Bayern, who have to react to several departures and now also the long-term injury of Musiala.
In conversation with our British colleague Devang Prasad, Di Marzio shares his assessment of Rafael Leao, Woltemade, and Müller, among others, and reports on how the signs are currently to be interpreted.
Who can replace Musiala at FC Bayern?
With Musiala out for 4-5 months, is there an unexpected target that Bayern Munich would now be pursuing? Who could that be? And what does this mean for Serge Gnabry’s future at the club? Will Bayern keep him now?
Gianluca Di Marzio: “Even before Musiala got injured, they wanted another attacking player. That could be Leao, but they haven’t made an offer for him yet.
With Musiala injured, I think they will try to get a player like him. I don’t know if it will be Leao, but AC Milan are waiting for Bayern Munich. They believe Bayern will come. Milan don’t want to sell him, but they believe Bayern Munich or Barcelona will come in.
I think Leao could be a transfer target. I’m not sure if AC Milan will let him go, but if they come in with €85 million, anything is possible.
Nick Woltemade is becoming the subject of a transfer saga. Do you expect Bayern Munich to get their desired player from Stuttgart?
Gianluca Di Marzio: He’s a superstar and a great striker. I think he’ll leave. Bayern Munich have reached a personal agreement with the player, and other clubs such as Inter Milan and AS Roma have also tried to make an offer.
He will go to Bayern, but I don’t know if he will move immediately or if he will stay in Stuttgart for another year. It depends on the relationship between Stuttgart and Bayern Munich and how badly they need him.
Hugo Larsson, who currently plays for Frankfurt, is reportedly a target for Fiorentina. How likely is this transfer?
Gianluca Di Marzio: At the moment, a transfer for Hugo Larsson is not likely. Fiorentina is waiting to sign a midfielder. I don’t think there is anything concrete between Larsson and Fiorentina.
Thomas Müller? “I think Saudi Arabia or MLS”
Are there any new possible destinations for Thomas Müller? He said he would rather play in an exotic location than retire.
Gianluca Di Marzio: Galatasaray loves to sign big-name players who are available on a free transfer and have international experience, but nothing is happening because Galatasaray is focusing on a new striker and has Osimhen on its list. Nothing concrete is to be expected in Turkey with Müller. I think Saudi Arabia or the MLS could be the destination for him. But everything can still change. He will talk to his agents about possible offers for him.
Armell Bella-Kotchap seems to be on the move, as Hamburg is interested in him. Do you think he will move to the promoted club?
Gianluca Di Marzio: “Hamburg is interested in Bella-Kotchap, and that is a likely destination. Nothing has been agreed yet, but I think he will move to Hamburg.”
