Bayern Munich target three signings to advance 'revolution'
The Bavarian giants have said their goodbyes to Robben, Ribery and Rafinha, and with European glory a key objective, new blood is required.
For months Bayern Munich have been signalling their intention to hit the transfer market hard ahead of next season as they look to rebuild an ageing squad, one that has lost three top players this season. And the proverbial ducks are being lined up to ensure a revolution in playing staff can ensure them a new period of success.
Bayern's three-step revolution
The first thing the club did was to shore up the defense with early signings Lucas Hernández and Benjamin Pavard for a combined 115 million euros. With that secured, their attention now turns to the midfield and attacking areas.
Of the four players who had been on the club's radar, one has since fallen off. According to Kicker, Eintracht Frankfurt forward Ante Rebic's form of late changed the view of Bayern's technical team, who now believe that he does not meet the quality required at the very top level.
A forward who has continued to impress is Timo Werner, and the striker has a chance to further prove his credentials as he lines up against Bayern in the German cup final. Niko Kovac will get another opportunity to see the Leipzig man up close and personal, although the club are already primed to start the negotiations as soon as the match is concluded. They know, however, that the 23-year old will not come cheap.
In terms of more direct replacements for Robben and Ribéry (and with James Rodríguez expeected to leave), the club have identified Manchester City's Leroy Sané. Also 23, the winger has impressed when involved but is not seen as a key part of the Pep Guardiola project, and conversations have already taken place between the player's family and the German champions.
A difficult dream to fulfill
With the transfers of Werner and Sané seen as very possible, the other player desired by Bayern could prove too difficult to make happen. Atlético Madrid's impressive young midfielder Rodrigo is reportedly already in advanced talks with Manchester City, although could still choose to stay longer than a single season in LaLiga.
The Bundesliga side are hoping that teammate Lucas can convince him to join up in Bavaria, with his release clause of 70 million euros not likely to cause them too much pain.