Bayern Munich Targets Alternatives to Nicolas Jackson
Mansion Sports â Bayern Munich is closely monitoring Midtjylland forward Franculino Dju as a potential acquisition for the upcoming summer transfer window.
The Bundesliga champions view Dju as a possible successor to Nicolas Jackson, who is currently on loan but is not expected to be signed on a permanent deal.
The club is also keeping an eye on Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic, whose contract is set to expire this summer and may make him available as a free agent.
Bayernâs Interest in Franculino
According to reports from German outlet Bild, Bayern is unlikely to pursue new signings during the winter transfer window despite the departure of Sacha Boey in January.
The club believes its current squad is strong enough to complete the season and prefers to prioritize long-term planning rather than short-term solutions.
Jackson was brought in on the final day of last summerâs transfer period as a backup option for Harry Kane.
However, despite recording three goals and one assist, Bayern remains unconvinced that exercising the âŹ65 million (ÂŁ56 million/$75 million) purchase clause would be justified. As a result, the club may allow his loan to expire without triggering the option.
Instead, Bayern has identified 21-year-old Franculino Dju as a potential reserve option behind Kane.
Dju has delivered a standout campaign, scoring 19 goals and supplying three assists in 26 matches, positioning him as one of Europeâs most promising emerging forwards. At the same time, Bayern continues to assess Vlahovic as a long-term structural option in attack.
With the Juventus striker entering the final year of his contract and potentially becoming a free agent next summer, he remains on Bayernâs radar, though he is currently viewed as a secondary option behind Dju.
Bayernâs Strong Start to the Season
Bayern opened the season in impressive form, remaining unbeaten in 16 matches across all competitions, including the Bundesliga, DFB-Pokal, DFB-Supercup, and the UEFA Champions League.
This achievement is more notable considering the departures of several key attackers such as Leroy SanĂ©, Kingsley Coman, and Thomas MĂŒller, as well as the clubâs inability to secure targeted signings like Nick Woltemade and Rafael LeĂŁo.
Despite these challenges, Vincent Kompany has implemented a clear tactical framework emphasizing persistence, collective understanding, and fluid attacking movements. This structure has enabled Harry Kane to reach an extraordinary level of productivity.
His goal against Club Brugge in the Champions League raised his tally to 20 goals in just 12 matchesâa remarkable milestone unmatched by Cristiano Ronaldo or Lionel Messi over the same span.
Contract Concerns Surrounding Upamecano
Bayern is also facing pressure regarding Dayot Upamecanoâs contract, which is set to expire in 2026.
The situation has become more pressing due to strong interest from Real Madrid, who have reportedly initiated contact with the playerâs camp.
The club hopes Kompanyâwho has quickly earned the trust of the squadâcan persuade Upamecano to remain committed.
However, Bayern is preparing contingencies should the defender choose not to extend his tenure.
Nico Schlotterbeck of Borussia Dortmund has been identified as a potential successor. Although Schlotterbeckâs contract runs until 2027, he has not yet committed to an extension, making him a viable target.
Bayern is also monitoring Liverpoolâs Ibrahima KonatĂ© and Crystal Palaceâs Marc Guehi as alternative options to maintain defensive stability if Upamecano departs.
Bayernâs Readiness After the International Break
Bayern aims to secure an extension for Upamecano as soon as possible, as he has become a central figure under Kompany.
Meanwhile, Jackson is expected to use the upcoming period to demonstrate his value to the manager and club leadership in his role as a supporting striker.
Kompany is likely to utilize the international break to review squad depth, plan effective rotation strategies, and refine tactical approaches.
With this foundation, Bayern remains fully focused as it continues its pursuit of a potential treble this season.
The German champions are scheduled to host St. Pauli when club competitions resume following the international break.