Bayern’s goalkeeper hunt intensifies as Karius joins shortlist

Loris Karius has been added to Bayern Munich’s goalkeeper shortlist as the club prepares for life after Manuel Neuer. Bayern are reportedly weighing three experienced keepers as they plan for a potential change of guard following Neuer’s anticipated retirement next summer.

According to Sky Germany, Hoffenheim’s Oliver Baumann remains the preferred candidate, with Fulham’s Bernd Leno and Schalke 04’s Loris Karius also under consideration.

Bayern are increasingly expecting Neuer to retire at the end of the 2026/27 season, although no final decision has been announced. The 40‑year‑old suffered a partial tendon tear in his right foot during Saturday’s 2‑1 Bundesliga win over Mainz and is expected to miss the rest of the 2026 calendar year. Neuer nonetheless aims to recover and return in 2027 rather than end his career prematurely.

Jonas Urbig has already been earmarked as Neuer’s long‑term successor, and Bayern’s recruitment is focused on securing an experienced goalkeeper to provide competition and support for the 23‑year‑old.

Bayern weigh Baumann favourite against Karius option for Neuer’s heir

Baumann leads Bayern’s shortlist

Oliver Baumann sits at the top of Bayern’s shortlist, with the 36‑year‑old Hoffenheim captain deemed particularly suited to the role. The German international, regarded as one of the Bundesliga’s most consistent keepers, would bring leadership alongside Urbig. Baumann has logged 532 Bundesliga appearances and is close to Karl‑Heinz Körbel’s all‑time record of 602, a milestone that could be jeopardised by a secondary role at Bayern. He is under contract with Hoffenheim until 2028, meaning Bayern would need to negotiate a transfer fee, although no concrete talks have been reported.

Karius and Leno as viable alternatives

Loris Karius, the Schalke 04 goalkeeper, is the newest name on Bayern’s list after rebuilding his career following a spell at Liverpool and helping Schalke return to the Bundesliga. His performances have attracted Bayern’s attention, but any move remains at an exploratory stage. Karius extended his contract with Schalke until 2028 earlier this year, which would entitle Bayern to a transfer fee.

Bernd Leno of Fulham provides another option; the 34‑year‑old former Bayer Leverkusen and Arsenal shot‑stopper is reportedly open to returning to Germany and willing to serve as a backup to Urbig. Leno’s contract runs until June 2027, with Fulham holding an option to extend for another season, meaning his availability on a free transfer depends on whether that option is exercised.

Bayern plan further goalkeeper discussions, with the longer‑term situation linked to the futures of Neuer and Sven Ulreich. Reportedly, the club intends to hold talks with both veteran keepers before Christmas to decide if either will continue beyond the current campaign. Get German Football News has reported that 17‑year‑old Leonard Prescott is increasingly likely to leave the club when his contract expires next summer, with the two parties holding differing views on his future. For now, Urbig will have an extended opportunity to demonstrate his readiness while Bayern continue evaluating their options for the next generation of goalkeepers at the Allianz Arena.