Manchester City is still hopeful of convincing Kyle Walker to extend his contract with the club, despite the strong interest shown by Bayern Munich. Walker, who is currently 33 years old, finds himself in a state of uncertainty regarding his future at the Etihad Stadium, as he recently entered the final year of his existing contract.
A recent report suggests that Walker has reached a verbal agreement with Bayern Munich, signaling his intention to join the German giants during the upcoming summer transfer window. It is understood that Bayern has offered Walker a two-year contract, with the option of a one-year extension. On the other hand, Manchester City has proposed a mere 12-month extension to the experienced defender’s current deal.
The England international appears to be leaning towards leaving Manchester City, as he seeks a fresh challenge and assurances of regular first-team football. Despite making 39 appearances for the club during their triumphant treble-winning campaign in 2022-23, Walker was excluded from several games in the latter half of the season, including the Champions League final against Inter Milan.
Walker’s regular place in the starting lineup was relinquished when Pep Guardiola modified the team’s formation shortly after the World Cup break. The Catalan manager opted to switch from a four-man defense to a back three, featuring an inverted full-back. Guardiola himself stated earlier this year that Walker was less suited to the inverted full-back role, which was expertly fulfilled by John Stones during the latter part of the previous season.
Despite these changes, Walker, who primarily operates as a right-back, adapted to the new system and played several matches on the right side of the back three for Manchester City. Consequently, he still remains an integral part of Guardiola’s plans for the future.
According to a report from the Daily Mail, Manchester City is eager to retain Walker’s services and secure a new contract for him, warding off interest from both Bayern Munich and Juventus, with the latter recently entering the race for his signature.
Since his move to the Etihad from Tottenham Hotspur in 2017, Walker has made a total of 254 appearances for Manchester City in all competitions, contributing six goals and 18 assists. The 76-cap England international has achieved remarkable success during his time with the club, winning 14 trophies including five Premier League titles, four EFL Cups, two FA Cups, two Community Shields, and one Champions League title.
In the event that Walker decides to bring his six-year tenure at the Etihad to a close, Manchester City is believed to have identified Bayern Munich defender Benjamin Pavard as their primary target to replace the Englishman this summer. Pavard is reportedly keen on leaving the Allianz Arena, and Bayern appears open to selling the 27-year-old as they look to generate funds for their pursuit of Harry Kane.