LaLiga giants Barcelona have received encouraging news in their pursuit of Bayern Munich midfielder Leon Goretzka.
The Blaugrana have long been linked with a move for the German, but face stiff competition from other European heavyweights. Atletico Madrid were one of Goretzka’s potential suitors, but the move has now fallen through.
Barcelona Receive Boost as Atletico Stumble in Goretzka Pursuit
Atletico Madrid sold Conor Gallagher to Tottenham Hotspur in the January transfer window for a fee in the region of €40 million. Tottenham reportedly hijacked Gallagher’s transfer to Aston Villa by offering to buy the player right away instead of pursuing a loan deal.
Atletico have since been searching for a suitable midfield reinforcement, with Leon Goretzka emerging as a strong candidate. Goretzka sees his Bayern Munich contract in June 2026, and is reportedly looking for a fresh challenge.
⚪️ : ́ (30)!
Goretzka (25/26), 98th Percentile Forward Passes 87th Percentile Progressive Carries 92% Pass Accuracy
Goated in His Primepic.twitter.com/JqFdzUpDpd
— The Stat Guy (@The_Stat_Guy_10) January 28, 2026
Los Colchoneros were primed to capitalise on the opportunity and sign him in the final days of the January window. However, the latest report from Sky Germany suggests that the deal is unlikely to go through.
Goretzka reportedly had a change of heart on Thursday and now wishes to run down his contract at Bayern. The player is hopeful of securing a more lucrative contract in the summer.
His decision comes as a big boost for Barcelona, who have been eyeing a free transfer for the player. Goretzka played his best football under Hansi Flick and is reportedly looking forward to reuniting with the manager again.
Goretzka featured in 64 games under Flick in all competitions across the 2019/20 and 2020/21 seasons, scoring 15 goals and providing 18 assists. His heroics helped Bayern win the Treble in 2020.
Goretzka Discusses Bayern Future Amid Exit Links
In an interview with Die Zeit, Leon Goretzka discussed his future at the club. He stated that while his future at the Allianz Arena was uncertain, he had not contacted Barcelona or any other team.
When asked if a transfer was on the cards, Goretzka replied:
“That’s an option, of course. I find the idea of going abroad exciting during my career.
“I’ve considered it twice already, but consciously decided against it. I know I’m in a comfort zone in Munich. Stepping outside would also be a step towards my personal development. Experiencing something new would enrich my life.
Goretzka #FIFACWC pic.twitter.com/Vc655ysKUl
— FIFA Club Football (@FIFACF) June 30, 2025
On the topic of approaching clubs, he added:
“I read that I supposedly contacted Hansi Flick in Barcelona. I can deny that here and now.”
Goretzka has played 292 games for Bayern in all competitions, registering 47 goals and 48 assists. He has won six Bundesliga titles and one Champions League with the Bavarians, among other honours.
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