In Germany, there is full awareness of Barcelona’s interest in strengthening their defense during the winter transfer window. However, Bayern Munich has ruled out any possibility of center-back Jonathan Tah leaving Vincent Kompany’s squad before the end of the season.
The international break has arrived across the continent. While football clubs put their domestic commitments on hold as players join their national teams, the sporting departments of Europe’s biggest clubs are already preparing to carry out transfer business during the upcoming winter window. Bayern Munich and Barcelona are no exception.
Barcelona’s desire to strengthen their defense sooner rather than later is well known. This season has been a challenge for Hansi Flick in his efforts to build a team with greater defensive stability. Jonathan Tah is a highly regarded target for both the German manager and sporting director Deco. However, the door to a potential January departure appears to be firmly closed.
Journalist Florian Plettenberg made the situation clear on social media. Barcelona is looking to sign an experienced center-back in January, with the aim of pairing him alongside Pau Cubarsí, whose talent alone has not been enough to prevent the defensive struggles the Catalan side have experienced in recent weeks. Bayern Munich has no interest in allowing the player to leave in January.
According to Plettenberg, Barcelona has made inquiries about the current situation of Vincent Kompany’s defender. A transfer appears highly unlikely, given Bayern Munich’s need to remain competitive in every competition they are currently involved in. For now, Germany is ruling out any possibility of Jonathan Tah leaving.
Beyond Barcelona’s interest in strengthening their defense, the reality is that the club’s financial situation will make it extremely difficult to bring in new players. The Catalan side has very little financial fair play margin available to complete a deal of this nature. Only a potential January departure for Alejandro Balde could create some room in their budget. Jonathan Tah may therefore have to wait until at least July or August.
The left-back does not have Hansi Flick’s full confidence and is expected to become one of the main talking points for the LaLiga leaders during the opening weeks of 2027. His departure could happen if attractive offers arrive and meet Barcelona’s financial expectations. Manchester United are the club most strongly linked with a move for his services.