Bayern Munich have earmarked Chelsea defender Andreas Christensen as a potential replacement for Borussia Dortmund-bound Niklas Sule, Sky Germany reports.
Sule will officially join Dortmund when his contract expires at the end of June. Bayern are now expected to pursue a suitable replacement but are reluctant to spend.
Owing to the COVID-19 situation, they don’t want to pay up €35-40 million for a centre-back and may give preference to a low-cost option or free transfer signing.
Christensen has now emerged as a transfer target with his Blues contract expiring in the summer.
The Dane’s future has been a regular discussion point over the past few months. He was close to renewing his deal earlier last year before a surprise U-turn.
Barcelona’s interest has been highlighted as a potential reason behind his change in stance. The Blaugrana have entered negotiations over a pre-contract deal.
Amidst this, Bayern have entered the pursuit. They are willing to lure Christensen back to the Bundesliga, where he was a massive hit at Borussia Monchengladbach.
Christensen spent two successful seasons on loan at Monchengladbach from the Blues. The club could not convince the European champions over a permanent transfer.
The 25-year-old has been in and out of the line-up for most of his Blues career. He may be eyeing a new club where he has an assured spot in the starting XI.
He has the preference to join the Blaugrana this summer, but Bayern’s interest could bring a fresh dimension to the saga, given his prior experience in the German top-flight.
While Barcelona are going through a period of transition under Xavi Hernandez, Bayern are one of the in-form teams in Europe, who would assure him with regular silverware.
Considering the Blaugrana’s tight financial situation due to La Liga’s imposed wage cap, Bayern could also convince Christensen with a more lucrative salary package.
