Arsenal target Kimmich makes Barcelona and Real Madrid admission

Tom Weber

• Updated: 29 Apr 2024 15:20 BST
• 4 min read

Joshua Kimmich has admitted that Real Madrid and Barcelona are 'amazing clubs' amid ongoing speculation about his future.

The Bayern Munich star is facing an uncertain summer transfer window. His contract expires in 2025 and so far there has been no real progress in discussions over a new deal with the Bavarian giants.

Bayern will actively look to sell Kimmich in the upcoming window if the German international refuses to agree to fresh terms. According to club director Max Eberl, the 29-year-old first wants clarity over the Champions League semi-finalists' next coach. Kimmich is said to have a poor relationship with departing boss Thomas Tuchel and this has been one of the big reasons why speculation surrounding his future has been rampant.

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It is still not clear whether Ralf Rangnick will be the man to replace Tuchel. If he were to join, it is likely that Kimmich would want to stay given that Rangnick was the man who brought him to RB Leipzig when he was just 18. Either way, the versatile midfielder and full-back has no shortage of suitors.

FootballTransfers exclusively revealed in April that Arsenal have made Kimmich a major target for the summer, while Barcelona and Real Madrid are among the clubs the player would be open to joining, it has been claimed in German media.

Kimmich on Spanish interest

Indeed, it seems that this is very much true. Kimmich spoke to AS ahead of Bayern's Champions League semi with Real Madrid and revealed his admiration for Barcelona and Los Blancos.

Addressing the links to the Spanish giants, Kimmich stated: “At the moment I’m not thinking about this. As I already said, I will speak to Bayern first. But of course, Barcelona and Real Madrid are amazing clubs with an amazing history.“

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Kimmich was also asked about not having an agent, which means that he represents himself in contract talks. "The advantage is that you can speak for yourself," the German international said, "but this can also be a disadvantage. Sometimes it's hard to talk about yourself."

"You are responsible for your decision. This is the most important thing for me: being at the table, listening directly to what those in charge say and being able to speak directly with the club and the coach. This helps me make a very good decision for my family and me."