Bayern Munich is in advanced talks to acquire Bayer Leverkusen’s center-back, Jonathan Tah, surpassing interest from Barcelona, Manchester United, and Real Madrid.

The Bundesliga powerhouse pursued Tah last summer but couldn’t agree on a transfer fee with Leverkusen. As a result, Tah has expressed his desire to leave Leverkusen on a free transfer once his contract ends this summer.

With his upcoming free agency, Tah is considered a valuable opportunity and has drawn interest from several top European clubs. While Barcelona led the race for most of the season, they have not submitted a formal offer. Meanwhile, Manchester United and Real Madrid also remain keen on securing Tah’s talents.

Bayern were prepared to let Tah move elsewhere before being rocked by Eric Dier’s decision to leave this summer. The newly crowned champions once again need a new centre-back and have set their sights firmly on Tah.

The Athletic state negotiations between Bayern and Tah are close to a positive conclusion. A three-year contract is on the table which would also include the option for a further 12 months.

As noted by Florian Plettenberg, such an offer is “very attractive” to Tah. The suggestion is that he has already agreed to Bayern’s proposal and all that is missing is Tah’s final approval of a move to Munich.

It is stressed that Barcelona, led by fellow German Hansi Flick, have not yet given up hope of signing Tah. A verbal agreement was reached between the two parties earlier this season but financial concerns have prevented Barcelona from formalising their desire to sign the defender.

Despite the threat of a late move from Barcelona, Bayern remain confident of wrapping up a deal for Tah, whose time with Leverkusen will end on Saturday after their final Bundesliga outing against Mainz.