Bayern Munich eye Gakpo to replace Lewandowski
Bayern Munich have been in touch with the agent of young PSV striker Cody Gakpo in a pre-emptive move in case Robert Lewandowski decides to leave.
Bayern Munich have been exploring options in attack in response to rumours surrounding the future of star striker Robert Lewandowski. The Poland international, who last season broke Gerd Müller's long-standing Bundesliga record for goals scored in a season and who sits second in the all-time standing for the Bavarian club behind the Germany legend, has been linked with a move after seven seasons at the Allianz Arena. Chelsea are among the clubs reportedly interested in Lewandowski, while Real Madrid's pursuit of the striker has long been an obsession.
Faced with the potential loss of Lewandowski, and equally as a long-term option if the 32-year-old remains, Bayern have been in touch with the representatives of PSV forward Cody Gakpo. The 22-year-old, who is predominantly a left winger, can also play on the right or operate as a striker and scored seven goals in 23 games in the Eredivisie last season.
Nagelsmann keen to reinvent Bayern attack
Gakpo was part of the Netherland's Euro 2020 squad and made his senior debut in the group game against North Macedonia. He has scored 41 of his 48 professional goals from the wing but new Bayern coach Julian Nagelsmann has his eye on converting Gakpo into a false nine to give his attack a new edge, in much the same way he did with Spain international Dani Olmo at Leipzig.
According to various reports in Germany, Bayern sounded out Gakpo's agents over a move in the winter window but the Bundesliga giants will face competition from Ligue 1 for his signature, with reigning champions Lille, Lyon and Marseille all tracking the youngster, who is under contract at the Philips Stadion until 2025 and valued at around €30m by PSV.