According to Goal, Bayern Munich have identified AFC Ajax’s Sebastian Haller as a potential target if Barcelona-linked Robert Lewandowski leaves the club for a new challenge. Meanwhile, several other European heavyweights are believed to be monitoring the former West Ham United man as well.
The Ivorian joined Ajax in a 22.5 million euros deal in January 2021 after a failed stint with the Hammers but has managed to resurrect his career at the Johan Cruyff Arena. Thus far, the striker has scored 46 goals in 62 appearances, including 11 in just eight Champions League appearances.
However, Bayern aren’t the only club watching Haller closely. Manchester United, whose incoming manager Erik ten Hag has coached Haller at tbe Amsterdam club, are also interested in bringing the West Ham flop back to the Premier League. Furthermore, both AC Milan and Internazionale are also monitoring the 27-year-old with a view toward a potential move this summer.
Bayern could have an edge in the race to sign Haller should Lewandowski complete a touted transfer to Barcelona, freeing up a starting spot. The 33-year-old is without a contract next year and is yet to commit his future to the Bavarians.
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Another significant advantage that the Bundesliga champions could hold is Ajax’s interest in their academy graduate Joshua Zirkzee. The 20-year-old is surplus to requirements at the Allianz Arena. He has spent the entirety of 2021 out on loan, first at Parma and then at Anderlecht, and will not return to his parent club until the end of this season.
Movements in other quarters mean Bayern could complete a sensational triple swoop from Ajax this summer; the club is closing in on the signing of right-back Noussair Mazraoui on a free transfer and is also in talks to sign midfielder Ryan Gravenberch.
Haller would likely fetch a modest fee, too, should Bayern press ahead with a transfer. Transfermarkt values the Ivorian forward at 30 million euros – 20 fewer than what West Ham paid for him when they signed him from Eintracht Frankfurt back in 2019.
