Barcelona’s proposed move for Bayern Munich defender Benjamin Pavard could be in jeopardy after it has been revealed that the Frenchman is having second thoughts about leaving the Allianz Arena this summer.
The defender was reportedly keen to leave Germany this summer due to his play-time, which had seen him forced to play at right back, something that he was not keen on making his long-term position.
“I can help out on the right flank, but my position is central defender,” the 26-year-old told French broadcaster RMC at the end of last season. “I want to play central defender because that’s my position since the U19s. I feel very comfortable and fulfilled in this position.”
Munich, Germany. 01 November 2022. Benjamin Pavard of FC Bayern Munich gestures during the UEFA Champions League football match between FC Bayern Munich and FC Internazionale. Nicolo Campo/Alamy Live News 2KAHPP1 Munich, Germany. 01 November 2022. Benjamin Pavard of FC Bayern Munich gestures during the UEFA Champions League football match between FC Bayern Munich and FC Internazionale. Nicolo Campo/Alamy Live News (Alamy Stock Photo)
And Barcelona were thought to be keen to do just that, making a move for the defender in order to bolster their own backline, something that Bundesliga expert Christian Falk claims was well received by the Frenchman.
“Barcelona is still, at the moment, the one club Pavard wants to join, either this summer if they have the money or as a free agent a year later”, he explained.
Sky, however, report that recent weeks have seen a change in outlook from the centre-back, largely down to being offered a new role at the club in his favoured position.
“Benjamin Pavard is really happy with his new role at Bayern as a CB”, Sky report. “He likes Munich a lot and can imagine staying, if he has a consistent role as a CB. Bayern bosses are very happy with his development and would like to keep him2
Should Nagelsmann stick with a back three, which also allows Joao Cancelo a more roaming role from wing-back, Pavard could be set to extend his stay in Germany instead of heading to the Camp Nou.