Leon Goretzka’s representatives have offered the Bayern Munich midfielder to Atlético Madrid as the Germany international prepares to become a free agent when his contract expires on 30 June.
According to Diario AS, the proposal puts the 31-year-old on Los Colchoneros’ radar as sporting director Alemany and manager Diego Simeone seek midfield reinforcements for the 2026-27 campaign. However, the report emphasises a critical distinction: Goretzka’s camp has approached Atlético, rather than the Spanish club initiating formal negotiations or tabling a contract offer.
Financial barriers remain
The primary obstacle to any agreement is economic. Goretzka reportedly earned approximately €15 million gross annually at Bayern Munich, a figure that AS acknowledges exceeds Atlético’s current wage structure. This financial constraint is likely to prove more decisive than any on-pitch assessment of the player’s suitability.
The two parties are not strangers to each other’s requirements. Atlético targeted Goretzka during the January transfer window, tabling a nominal fee understood to be in the region of €2-3 million to secure his services mid-season. Bayern rejected that approach, and the player elected to see out his contract and depart on a free transfer this summer.
Competition for signature
Goretzka’s availability has attracted attention across Europe. Juventus are reported to hold strong interest from Serie A, while Premier League sides Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur have monitored his situation alongside AC Milan. This creates an agent-driven marketplace where the midfielder’s camp can generate competitive offers before committing to a destination.
From a sporting perspective, Goretzka offers physical presence at 1.89 metres and the versatility to function as both a ball-winner and a late arriving threat in the opposition area. He contributed five goals and five assists across 48 appearances for Bayern this season, accumulating 2,349 minutes of action. These attributes align with the hybrid midfield roles Simeone typically demands, though the player will turn 32 in February.
Alternative targets under review
Atlético are simultaneously evaluating multiple profiles. Aleix García and Kang-in Lee have emerged as concurrent targets, while Sporting CP’s Morten Hjulmand carries a reported valuation of €40-45 million. The Danish international represents a significantly different financial proposition—requiring a transfer fee but potentially offering more manageable salary demands.
With Koke performing strongly last season and César Azpilicueta’s compatriot Cardoso underperforming expectations in his debut campaign, Atlético require at least one midfield addition and potentially two should Cardoso depart on loan. Goretzka’s free agent status removes a transfer fee from the equation, but his wage expectations may prove equally prohibitive for the Madrid club.
Bayern Munich retain no leverage in the negotiations as Goretzka’s contract expires this week, leaving the midfielder free to choose his next club without interference from his current employers.