Bayern Munich consider Bernd Leno move as Fulham goalkeeper joins shortlist

Bayern Munich are reportedly considering a move for Fulham goalkeeper Bernd Leno as the German giants prepare for a major changing of the guard between the posts.

Manuel Neuer is now 40 and appears increasingly likely to retire next summer, while long-time deputy Sven Ulreich could also call time on his career at the age of 38.

Bayern’s plan is for highly-rated Jonas Urbig to eventually become their new number one. However, that would leave them needing an experienced and dependable goalkeeper capable of supporting and competing with the youngster.

That search has already led Bayern towards the Premier League.

According to BILD, Bayern have discussed their goalkeeping plans internally during the international break and Leno has been added to their list of potential targets.

The 34-year-old has established himself as a reliable Premier League goalkeeper since joining Fulham and his performances have clearly caught Bayern’s attention.

Leno would also arrive with considerable Bundesliga experience after previously representing Bayer Leverkusen before his move to Arsenal in 2018.

Jordan Pickford has also recently been linked with Bayern, suggesting the Bundesliga champions are assessing several Premier League options before making a decision.

One attraction for Bayern is the potential cost of signing Leno.

His Fulham contract currently runs until 2027, although the London club have an option to extend that agreement.

Even if Fulham activate the clause, BILD suggests Leno is unlikely to command a huge transfer fee because of his age and contract situation.

The German international is slightly older than Bayern’s preferred profile, but his experience and familiarity with German football could compensate for that.

There is another factor potentially working in Bayern’s favour. Leno comes from the Stuttgart region and a move to Munich would take him closer to his family.

BILD claims there is a belief that Leno could imagine finishing his playing career at Bayern.

However, that does not mean a move is inevitable.

Leno recently made clear he remains happy at Fulham and suggested he would be open to extending his stay at Craven Cottage.

“I love the Premier League. I love it here, I love London, and I feel right at home now,” he said.

Bayern appear to be in the assessment stage rather than advanced negotiations with Fulham.

Their priority is finding an experienced goalkeeper who can provide security while Urbig develops into the long-term number one, and Leno fits much of that profile.

His age could work against him, but it could equally make the transfer financially attractive. Bayern would be getting a goalkeeper with Premier League and Bundesliga experience without having to make a huge investment.

Fulham’s position will also be important. They can extend Leno’s contract and the goalkeeper has publicly spoken positively about remaining in west London.

For now, Leno is one of several options Bayern are considering as they prepare for life after Neuer.