Bayern Munich midfielder Joshua Kimmich has vowed to stay at the club beyond this summer, ending talk of a move to Barcelona.
The 28-year-old has been linked with a move to the Catalan club this summer despite them struggling with their finances.
Several media outlets even claimed that the German international was excited about a transfer to Barcelona this summer.
Barca head coach Xavi Hernandez was happy to discuss his talks with Kimmich with the press.
Xavi told Jijantes: “I talked to him in Qatar – we met at an event, and he said he was a fan of me.
“Barca move? He is under contract with Bayern, so it depends on him. Look at Lewy (Robert Lewandowski), for example. He wanted to come.”
However, Kimmich sees himself at Bayern and has ended those links. He said (via Bayern’s official website): “I’m very sure that I will play for FC Bayern in the new season.”
Kimmich moved from RB Leipzig to Bayern in 2015, where he swiftly cemented his reputation as both an outstanding midfielder and right-back.
He earned comparisons to Bayern and Germany legend Philipp Lahm.
Throughout his time at the club, the Rottweil-born star played a pivotal role in securing eight Bundesliga titles and clinching the DFB Pokal three times.
He was integral in the Champions League triumph in 2020 as Bayern secured a treble.
Kimmich’s contributions have been indispensable for Bayern over the years.
However, recent developments suggested that his previously untouchable status was changing, hinting at a possible end to his time there. The player has now ended those rumours.
Bayern will now focus on signing a defensive midfielder to partner with Kimmich. Thomas Tuchel has been keen on adding a holding midfielder ahead of the new season.
There have been links to Sofyan Amrabat and Aurelien Tchouameni. However, Die Rekordmeister have yet to make a concrete move for either player.
