Bayern to pay €22m for Thiago

Bayern Munich are seen as closing in on a deal to sign Barcelona’s Thiago Alcantara, for a total cost of €22m.

The Spanish midfielder has been continually linked with a move away from the Camp Nou this summer, in search of first team football and with his release clause having dropped to €18m.

Whilst it was seen that Manchester United were in pole position for the 22-year-old, Bayern were reported last week as having stolen a march in negotiations, and were identified as the player’s preference.

On from Bayern boss and former Barca Coach Pep Guardiola stating his determination that Thiago would be the Germans’ only other signing for the summer if possible, reports have since suggested that it is only a matter of time until a deal is reached.

The deal is now set to be mutually agreed between all parties and will see Bayern pay out a total of €22m to pick up the player, paying his €18m termination clause and also fronting up a further €4m in taxes due.

It is also suggested that Barca are pushing for the Bundesliga side to include terms in the deal for further payment, based on Thiago’s future performance at the club and should Bayern win any titles.