Bayern Munich Targets Experienced Goalkeepers
Bayern Munich is exploring the German goalkeeper market to find a backup and mentor for Jonas Urbig ahead of Manuel Neuer’s expected retirement at the end of the season.
Neuer, 40, shares playing time with the Urbig when not sidelined by injuries, such as a current partial tear in a right foot tendon. The club’s leadership is evaluating several veteran options to transition into the squad once Neuer’s storied tenure concludes.
Oliver Baumann Emerges as Top Choice
Sky Sport Germany reported that Oliver Baumann of Hoffenheim is the club’s primary target to step in as the future number two behind Urbig. Baumann, 36, served as Neuer’s backup for the German national team during the 2026 World Cup.
One major obstacle exists in the pursuit of Baumann. The goalkeeper currently has 532 Bundesliga appearances and sits 71 matches away from Karl-Heinz Körbel's record of 602 matches; it is unclear whether he would accept a backup role at Bayern instead of chasing the milestone at Hoffenheim.
Bernd Leno and Loris Karius on the Shortlist
Beyond Baumann, the shortlist includes Fulham goalkeeper Bernd Leno, according to Sky Sport Germany reporting. Leno, 34, is a former Germany international who previously played for Arsenal and Bayer Leverkusen.
Loris Karius of Schalke 04 has also emerged as a surprise option for the role. The 33-year-old goalkeeper rebounded with Schalke in January 2025 after stints following his career with Liverpool and has conceded just 11 goals in 9 Bundesliga matches this season.
Jonas Urbig Prepares for the Starting Role
Jonas Urbig joined Bayern Munich from Cologne in January 2025 and is slated to take over the starting role next summer. While the club’s internal staff holds high confidence in Urbig, his lack of experience handling a full Bundesliga season as an undisputed starter has prompted the board to seek an experienced mentor.
Sky Sport Germany reported that Bayern Munich has not yet opened formal discussions with any of the candidates, leaving internal evaluations ongoing.
Related reading
