Top five Benjamin Pavard replacements at Bayern Munich

The Frenchman is on the verge of joining Italian Giants

After coming through the ranks of the LOSC Lille youth system, Benjamin Pavard cracked the first team by July 2015. And a season later which involved a total of 25 appearances, German club VfB Stuttgart showed high interest in the then 20-year-old. Pavard accepted the proposition and so did LOSC Lille. At VfB Stuttgart, the defender accumulated 88 appearances in his 3-year stay before Bayern made a move. Fast forward to August 2023, the 2018 FIFA World Cup winner is now tinkering with a move away.

Last season Bayern narrowly edged out Borussia Dortmund for the Bundesliga title. And in Europe, after topping their group C, Bayern were sent packing bags when they met Man City in the quarter-finals of the UEFA Champions League. And somewhere in between the mix, Benjamin Pavard was involved quite vividly. He made 30 appearances in the German first-tier league while another 9 in the Champions League run for Bayern. And as Inter is now reportedly set to close in the right back, the Bavarian Giants are looking at their options:

5. Lutsharel Geertruida (Feyenoord)

Feyenoord’s Lutsharel Geertruida is being considered to replace Pavard. This can serve as a like-for-like replacement as Geertruida is known for his versatility in defence. The Dutchman is capable to ply his trades both as a right back and centre back. A role that Pavard is known to offer.

Contact between Bayern and Geertruida exists, but formal negotiations haven’t started. Previously, RB Leipzig eyed Geertruida as Gvardiol’s replacement but shifted to Castello Lukeba due to cost. Leipzig’s €30m offer for Geertruida was rejected by Feyenoord, seeking €36m. This price could resurface if Bayern’s interest solidifies. Geertruida’s dual position adaptability makes him attractive, reflecting Pavard’s qualities. However, financial aspects will likely influence any potential deal, mirroring Leipzig’s situation.

4. Kyle Walker (Man City)

In a press conference last month, Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola mentioned that they will ‘fight’ to keep Kyle Walker. There are reports that the England international is set to renew his contract. But as we know in football unless it’s official anything can happen.

Bayern Munich are reportedly not giving up just yet in their attempts to acquire Manchester City’s right-back, Kyle Walker, as reported by L’Equipe journalist Loïc Tanzi. The timing is crucial, with Josip Stanišić out on loan and Benjamin Pavard agreeing to a move to Inter Milan, Bayern’s strong right-back position could weaken. This mirrors the goalkeeper situation earlier this summer. Although there are talks of Walker renewing his contract, Bayern hasn’t entirely abandoned the idea of a deal. Despite this persistence, it seems Walker might not remain high on their priority list.

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3. Denzel Dumfries (Inter Milan)

Dutch defender Denzel Dumfries had a standout season in Inter Milan, netting two goals and providing seven assists. Dumfries moved to Italy after a £12.3 million transfer from PSV in August 2021. Despite losing players involved in the defensive part of the job like André Onana to Manchester United, Milan Skriniar and Danilo D’Ambrosio. Inter Milan is now being eyed by Bayern who wish to acquire a right-back to replace outgoing Pavard.

Inter has a history that includes releasing quality right-backs like Achraf Hakimi and while they were not able to secure Joao Cancelo in 2018. And given Inter are the ones almost set to complete Pavard signing. A deal can come through with Bayern who are not willing to let Pavard leave unless they get a replacement. Dumfries is under contract until June 2025, indicating Inter might recoup their previous investment and signing a cover later won’t hurt the cause.

2. Ricardo Pereira (Leicester City)

Leicester City‘s dynamic full-back, Ricardo Pereira, is a notable contender for Bayern’s interest. Pereira, aged 29, is versatile, able to excel as a right-back or right wingback, adapting even to a three-man defence. His attacking prowess stands out with energetic forays into the final third, making him a challenge to halt. His swift pace is an asset, while his passing accuracy and ability to deliver threatening crosses bolster his appeal.

Despite recovering from an Achilles tendon rupture, he participated in 10 Premier League matches last season contributing an assist and a goal. Leicester’s relegation and offering EFL Championship football contrast Bayern’s Bundesliga and Champions League allure, potentially swaying Pereira. Given his age and Leicester’s revival prospects, they might consider cashing in.

1. Noussair Mazraoui (Bayern Munich)

If Bayern Munich faces challenges in replacing Benjamin Pavard, there might be a reassuring solution already within their ranks. Noussair Mazraoui could step up after Pavard’s departure. Mazraoui has been groomed by the Ajax youth academy before transferring to Bayern free from their first team in July 2022.

While his debut season in Bavaria saw limited playing time, the Moroccan defender’s potential is evident. Reports indicate Bayern plans to retain Mazraoui, considering him a vital asset for the upcoming season. He could well become the preferred right-back choice. Mazraoui showcased glimpses of his offensive and defensive capabilities last season. Given an extended opportunity, he could bring consistency to Die Roten’s lineup. Bayern’s stature opens possibilities, and they could wait until January to assess further right-back reinforcements.

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