The Dier Replacement Plan: Why Bayern Are Turning to Former City Player

 

BAYERN MUNICH IN TALKS TO RE-SIGN FORMER MAN CITY DEFENDER – €5M DEPARTURE NOW POTENTIAL DIER REPLACEMENT

Bundesliga Giants Target Ko Itakura as Potential Eric Dier Successor

Bayern Munich have entered negotiations to sign Borussia Mönchengladbach defender Ko Itakura, the Japanese international who Manchester City sold for just €5 million in 2021, as they seek to replace Monaco-bound Eric Dier.

The 27-year-old center-back, now valued at €25 million, has emerged as a key target for Vincent Kompany's defensive rebuild following Dier's expected departure.

Why Bayern Want Itakura

1. Bundesliga Pedigree

✔ 72 appearances for Gladbach since 2022

✔ Adapted seamlessly to German football

✔ Leadership qualities as Japan captain

2. Tactical Flexibility

🔄 Can play CB or defensive midfield

⚔ Strong in duels (65% success rate)

🎯 Comfortable in possession (85% pass accuracy)

3. Smart Business

💰 Current value: €25m (5x City's sale price)

🌏 Commercial appeal in Asian markets

Itakura's Unlikely Journey

• 2019: Signed by Man City from Kawasaki Frontale

• 2020-21: Loaned to Groningen

• 2021: Sold to Schalke for €5m

• 2022: Joined Gladbach for €5m

• 2024: Now worth €25m+

Bayern's Defensive Plans

🔹 Outgoing: Eric Dier (Monaco)

🔹 Potential Arrivals: Itakura, Jonathan Tah

🔹 Long-term: Still monitoring Antonio Silva

What's Next?

• Talks progressing with Gladbach

• Fee expected around €25m

• Medical could happen next week