Bayern Munich reportedly expect to win the race to sign RB Leipzig midfielder Konrad Laimer in the summer.
Throughout the previous transfer window, Laimer was heavily linked with an exit from the Bundesliga outfit due to 12 months remaining on his contract.
However, the 25-year-old eventually remained with his current club, only to be restricted to six starts in all competitions during 2022-23.
That is owing to a knee injury that was sustained in September and it has not aided any attempt from Leipzig to retain the services of the player.
Nevertheless, rumours regarding a switch to Bayern, who are managed by former Leipzig boss Julian Nagelsmann, have been ongoing for some time.
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According to 90min, there is already every indication that Laimer will be making the move to the Allianz Arena at the end of his contract in June.
The report claims that Bayern believe that they have already finalised terms with the Austria international ahead of a transfer next year.
The alleged development comes just over a month before foreign clubs are able to hold discussions with Laimer over a pre-contract agreement.
Liverpool were one of the teams who were heavily linked with Laimer earlier this year and their need for a midfield refresh has led to interest more recently.
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However, the Premier League giants are said to be already aware that Laimer has chosen Bayern for the next phase of his career, most likely starting in 2023-24.
Nevertheless, it is suggested that Bayern may be open to trying to negotiate a deal for a cut-price fee in January in a bid to boost their mixed campaign.
Although Bayern now hold a four-point lead at the top of the Bundesliga standings, it is a consequence of a six-match winning streak after a slow start to the campaign.
From Leipzig's perspective, their own resurgence has been without Laimer being involved with 12 wins coming from their last 14 outings in all competitions.
Marco Rose was appointed as head coach two days prior to Laimer's last appearance, and there is a scenario where all parties may be open to parting ways if a compromise can be reached over a fee.
Darren Plant
