The transfer of Jonathan Tah (29, Bayer Leverkusen) to Bayern Munich is in the final stages.
European football transfer market expert Fabrizio Romano reported on the 14th (Korea time) that "the official proposal presented by Bayern Munich to Jonathan Tah has completed all internal approvals."
Tah has an impressive aerial ability, utilizing his height of 195 cm, and despite being a large player, he uses his quick feet to excel in one-on-one defensive situations with attackers. He recorded a top speed of 35.81 km/h, making him one of the fastest players among center-backs in the Bundesliga.
It's not just speed. Tah also excels in blocking pass lanes with intelligent positioning. Additionally, he possesses high accuracy in long-range passing, making him a versatile resource capable of contributing to build-up play from the back.
Tah has received the favor of manager Xabi Alonso. Having only played for Bayer Leverkusen since the 2015-2016 season, he led the team to its first league title in history and the first undefeated championship in Bundesliga history in the 2023-2024 season, establishing himself as a top-tier center-back.
In this situation, Bayern Munich has shown interest in Tah for quite some time. Last April, German 'Sky Sports' reported that "according to our coverage, Bayern is looking to acquire Tah. Bayern has been deeply impressed by his performances this season. He can play in both a three-back and a four-back formation. Additionally, he is one of the fastest defenders in the Bundesliga."
In April, coinciding with that report, Tah directly revealed that he would be leaving Bayer Leverkusen after this season. The Athletic reported that "if the contract goes through, he will sign a three-year deal with Bayern, which will include an option for a one-year extension."
Last weekend's home game against Borussia Dortmund (2-4 loss) was his last home game at Bayer Leverkusen. After the match, Tah took the microphone to say goodbye to the home fans.
According to German 'Bild', he noted, "On one hand, I feel sad, and on the other hand, I look forward to the new journey ahead." He added, "I deeply appreciate the love and support the fans have shown me over the past ten years."
Earlier, The Athletic reported on the 13th that Tah is in specific negotiations to join Bayern Munich as a free agent this summer when his contract with Bayer Leverkusen expires.
The media noted that "Bayern Munich has been working to strengthen its center-back position following Eric Dier's transfer to AS Monaco this summer. Tah, the vice-captain of Bayer Leverkusen, has played a total of 401 games at BayArena over the past 10 seasons. He played a pivotal role in achieving the treble, including winning the Bundesliga's undefeated championship in the 2023-2024 season."
On the 14th, Romano said, "The official proposal presented by Bayern to Tah has completed all internal approvals, including salary conditions." He added, "Now the final key stage is the player's decision. If Tah accepts, the transaction will be finalized. The ball is in Tah's court."
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