Sané open to extending his contract at Bayern and willing to take a pay cut

Leroy Sané is set to extend his expiring contract with Bayern Munich in the near future, marking a significant moment for both the player and the club as they look to strengthen their long-term relationship.

The 29-year-old forward, widely regarded as one of the most technically gifted and explosive wingers in European football, has reportedly decided to stay at Der Rekordmeister despite receiving highly lucrative offers from the Middle East, notably from Saudi Arabian side Al-Ittihad. Bayern Munich have prepared a new contract that will keep Sané at the club until the summer of 2028, a move that signals both the player’s loyalty and the club’s faith in his continued importance to their success.

According to Bayern Insider, the podcast by German outlet Bild, Al-Ittihad, who currently sit at the top of the Saudi Pro League, have expressed strong interest in bringing Sané to the Gulf region. The Saudi side, which boasts high-profile players like Steven Bergwijn and Karim Benzema, was prepared to offer Sané a staggering salary in the region of 25 million euros net per year. Such a figure would have placed Sané among the highest-paid footballers in the world, yet the German international has made it clear that financial rewards are not his main motivation.

In fact, Sané is so committed to continuing his journey with Bayern that he is willing to accept a pay cut to do so. His current salary, which totals approximately twenty million euros per year (fifteen million fixed plus five million in bonuses), will be reduced under the terms of the new agreement. The proposed contract will see him earn around fifteen million euros annually (ten million fixed plus five in potential bonuses). This rare gesture in modern football underscores Sané’s dedication to the club and his belief in Bayern’s ambitions both domestically and in Europe.

Speaking at the press conference ahead of Bayern’s upcoming Bundesliga match against FSV Mainz 05, scheduled for Saturday, April 26, at 15:30, Bayern’s technical director Max Eberl addressed the ongoing contract talks with Sané. “We will announce something when the time comes. It’s not a matter of days,” Eberl said, suggesting that while the final details are still being worked out, the agreement is very close. The timing of the extension also aligns with Bayern’s broader strategy of solidifying their core squad as they push for the Bundesliga title and plan for the next season.

Sané’s journey with Bayern began in the summer of 2020 when the German giants signed him from Manchester City for nearly fifty million euros. The transfer was seen as a major coup for Bayern at the time, as Sané was one of the most sought-after players in the market. Before his time in England, Sané had made a name for himself in the Bundesliga, having developed through the youth systems of Bayer Leverkusen and Schalke 04. He made his professional debut for Schalke at the age of eighteen on April 20, 2014, quickly establishing himself as a prodigious talent with immense potential.

Since his arrival at Bayern, Sané has played a crucial role in the team’s attacking dynamics. His speed, dribbling, and eye for goal have made him a constant threat on the flanks, and he has contributed significantly in key matches, both in the Bundesliga and in European competitions. Despite some periods of inconsistency, Sané has become a fan favorite at the Allianz Arena, appreciated not just for his flair, but also for his work ethic and willingness to adapt to the demands of the team.

Over the past four seasons, Sané has won multiple domestic titles with Bayern, including Bundesliga championships and DFB-Pokal trophies. His performances have often been decisive, and under the current management, he has found a renewed sense of confidence and form. The extension of his contract is seen by many as a strategic move by Bayern, ensuring that one of their most talented players remains at the club during a period of transition and renewed ambition.

Moreover, Sané’s choice to stay in Munich, despite offers that could have made him significantly richer, speaks volumes about the culture and values at Bayern Munich. The club, known for its emphasis on loyalty, team spirit, and long-term planning, views Sané as a cornerstone of their future success. His commitment is also expected to send a positive message to other key players and potential signings about the stability and ambition within the squad.

As Bayern Munich prepare to face FSV Mainz 05, a match that could be pivotal in their pursuit of yet another Bundesliga title, the news of Sané’s impending contract renewal adds a boost of optimism around the club. Fans will be eager to see him continue to deliver decisive performances, and the management will hope that his dedication can inspire the team to greater heights in the seasons to come.