Bayern Munich's interest in Leverkusen defender Jonathan Tah intensifies

The Bayer Leverkusen defender, 28, who was part of the squad which won the recent Bundesliga and DFB Pokal Cup titles, has been linked with a move to Bayern Munich for several weeks, and these rumours have only grown louder.

Bayern, the record Bundesliga champions, have long had their eye on Tah. The versatile defender, capable of playing in both three and four-man defensive setups, is renowned for his speed, making him one of the fastest defenders in the league.

The recent appointment of Vincent Kompany as Bayern's new manager might accelerate the transfer process. At his introductory press conference on Thursday, Bayern's sporting director Max Eberl hinted at potential signings, stating, "We might be further along in our squad planning than people think." This comment has led many on social media to speculate that Eberl could be referring to Tah.

In a press conference on Wednesday evening at the German national team's training camp in Thuringia, Tah was questioned by journalists about the rumours linking him to Bayern.

When asked if Kompany's presence could lure him to Munich, Tah responded evasively: "There have always been speculations, which is understandable given my contract situation (expiring in 2025).

"I can understand that. Right now, I've just joined the national team. I'm fully focused on the tasks ahead, which are very special. I'm trying to block out everything else. But yes, I can understand the questions."

According to BILD, Bayern are keen to sell an existing centre-back before bringing in new defensive reinforcements. Despite this, their interest in Tah has remained strong.

Leverkusen are reportedly very determined to keep hold of Tah, who is under contract until 2025. However, should Bayern decide to pursue the defender seriously, they would need to prepare for a significant financial outlay.

For Tah, Leverkusen would likely demand over €40 million. Tah's release clause of €18 million, which was valid until 2023, is no longer in effect.

As the transfer window approaches, the coming weeks will reveal whether Bayern Munich can secure Jonathan Tah's signature, adding another layer of intrigue to an already captivating summer transfer saga.