What started out as a season filled with hope and optimism of finally being able to challenge for Bayern’s Bundesliga throne ended in a 3rd place finish with a familiar stroyline. Bayern had better players, more money, more resources etc. However the 2019/19 season truly presents an opportunity to reclaim their place at the top of German football and among the elite clubs of European football. Here are 3 players that they should sign that could help them do that.
Timo Werner
The Leipzig frontman has had an absolutely fantastic season, which will probably see him gain a starting berth in Germany’s World Cup squad. He’s quick, agile, cunning and is probably looking for a new team to elevate his career. After a disappointing Bundesliga and European campaign, Werner must’ve come to the realization that Leipzig are unable to provide him with the glory that his talent deserves. With rumors of a move to Atletico Madrid(due to Griezmann being Barcelona bound), Dortmund will have to act quickly to sign the young German striker. He’s familiar with league, and he would fit right into the tactical template required by a Dortmund forward especially considering the similarities between Leipzig and Dortmund. He’s also still developing and it would be no surprise to see him grow into one of the best strikers in the world. Sporting Director Micheal Zorc should really consider courting Werner to the Signal Iduna Arena. Another reason Dortmund should be making Werner one of their summer priorities is the fact that Michy Batshuayi hasn’t been signed on a permanent basis yet and the likelihood of Dortmund even finishing top 4 without a top striker, is pretty much non-existent.
Timo Horn
After taking the Bundesliga by storm in the last few years, Timo Horn’s time in Germany’s first division has sadly come to an end. The Cologne number 1. Was relegated to the Bundesliga 2 after a dreadful campaign by Peter Stoeger’s former club. Barring his loyalties to the Billy Goats, there should be no reason Dortmund shouldn’t pursue him with the aim of making him the club’s long-term, 1st choice number 1. Roman Burki has had a decent season but he conceded way to many soft goals at crucial moments this season. Is there any chance that Dortmund can survive playing in the Champions League with a flimsy 1st choice keeper? I think not. Timo Horn is brave, passionate and has tremendous ability as a goalkeeper. It would be fantastic if Dortmund would add him to their 2018/2019 roster.
Amadou Haidara
When a player as young as Amadou Haidara performs as brilliantly as he did during this seasons Europa League, it makes it hard for a club that operates on a tight budget to compete with other clubs. Dortmund would also have to fight off competition from RB Leipzig, considering the relationship Salzburg have with them and the fact that they’re actively looking to replace the outgoing Naby Keita. But that shouldn’t matter. Haidara is like N’golo Kante and Paul Pogba in one(excuse the hyperbole). He’s young, athletic, intelligent and effective. And he should definitely partner Julian Weigel or Mahmoud Dahoud next season. Haidara would definitely be an upgrade on the aging Gonzalo Castro and would also offer more going forward. However it remains to be seen whether the club sees him as an excellent investment and if they’re serious about sustaining a challenge for the Bundesliga.
