The Transfer That Nearly Was
Joshua Kimmich has revealed that he came within touching distance of joining Paris Saint-Germain in 2024, admitting the move was “95 percent” certain before he ultimately decided to extend his stay at Bayern Munich.
In a revealing documentary titled “Captain Kimmich,” broadcast just ahead of the 2026 World Cup, the German international opened up about the intense negotiations with PSG, the financial magnitude of the offer, and why he eventually chose to remain in Bavaria.
“At the time, I felt Bayern was quite prepared to let me go. And PSG really did their work well and gave me the impression they genuinely wanted me,” Kimmich said in the documentary, as relayed by German outlet Kicker. “PSG was a club that showed real commitment. A club I had not even considered.”
PSG Pursuit and Personal Touch
The Parisian club, under the guidance of Luis Enrique and sporting director Luis Campos, pursued Kimmich aggressively. The PSG boss and his sporting director personally visited the midfielder at his home in Munich, a gesture that left a deep impression. Kimmich even went as far as researching schools for his children in the French capital, indicating how close the transfer truly was.
“I was 95 percent sure I would not extend my contract here,” Kimmich admitted two years ago, describing his state of mind at the peak of negotiations. The financial package offered by PSG was described as “incredible” by Kimmich, but he emphasized that “I did not want that to become the deciding factor.”
Bayern Stay Vindicated
Ultimately, Kimmich signed a contract extension with Bayern Munich until 2029 in March 2025. The decision proved inspired. Under the tutelage of Vincent Kompany, the 31-year-old has returned to his commanding best, helping Bayern secure the Bundesliga title and the DFB-Pokal this season.
His only regret? A Champions League semi-final exit at the hands of none other than PSG, who edged past Bayern 5-4 on aggregate. “I have never felt such confidence as I do today,” Kimmich reflected. “Extending my contract with Bayern was the right decision.” No hard feelings, it seems — just a remarkable what-if story for one of the most versatile midfielders of his generation.
Source: L’Equipe / Kicker