Leon Goretzka is one of the most talked-about names in the European transfer market. The 31-year-old German international, once the undisputed engine of the Bayern Munich midfield, is navigating the final months of a storied chapter in Bavaria.
Whether you’re tracking his potential move to London or his recent shift to a rotational role in Munich, here is everything you need to know about Leon Goretzka.
2026 Transfer Watch: Is Goretzka Leaving Bayern?
The short answer is yes. Leon Goretzka has officially announced that he will depart FC Bayern Munich at the end of the 2025/26 season.
The "New Chapter": On January 30, 2026, Goretzka confirmed he would not be renewing his contract, seeking a fresh challenge after winning every major trophy available with the German giants.
Arsenal Interest: The Gunners have emerged as a primary suitor.
Reports from early April 2026 suggest Mikel Arteta is keen to add Goretzka’s experience and physicality to his midfield as a free agent. The AC Milan Push: As of today, AC Milan is considered the frontrunner.
The Rossoneri have reportedly prepared a three-year contract offer worth €5 million per season to lure the German to the San Siro.
Why is Leon Goretzka not playing?
While still a member of the squad, Goretzka’s role has changed significantly during the 2025/26 campaign.
Rotational Status: Unlike previous years where he was a guaranteed starter, he has largely become a rotational player, often utilized as a substitute for the young sensation Aleksandar Pavlović.
Tactical Shift: Bayern’s recent managerial focus on more defensive fluidity has occasionally left the "box-to-box" specialist on the bench.
Minutes Played: He has logged roughly 1,835 minutes this season—a noticeable drop from his peak years, which has contributed to his decision to seek a starting role elsewhere.
Player Profile: Style and Position
Goretzka is the quintessential "Box-to-Box" Midfielder ($Zentrum$).
Position: Primarily a Central Midfielder (CM), though he can operate as a Defensive Midfielder (CDM) or even an Attacking Midfielder (CAM).
Physicality: Standing at 1.89 m (6 ft 2 in), he is known for his remarkable physical transformation and "powerhouse" frame, which allows him to dominate duels.
Attributes: He is praised for late runs into the box, aerial prowess, and high-intensity pressing.
Personal Life and Heritage
Age: 31 (Born February 6, 1995).
Height: 1.89 m.
Is he Polish? While Goretzka is a German national born in Bochum, his surname is of Polish origin (
$Górecka$). He is a descendant of Polish immigrants who moved to the Ruhr region (Germany's industrial heartland) generations ago. This is a common heritage in Bochum and Gelsenkirchen. Education: He famously passed his Abitur (German high school exams) with high marks while already playing professionally for Schalke 04.
Financials: Transfermarkt & Salary
| Metric | Value (April 2026) |
| Market Value | €15 million |
| Contract End | June 30, 2026 |
| Estimated Salary | ~€18m (at Bayern) |
| Proposed Salary | ~€5m (AC Milan offer) |
Fun Fact: Bayern Munich History
Many fans searching for Goretzka also ask about the club's history.
Who is the highest goal scorer in Bayern Munich history? The legendary Gerd Müller holds the all-time record with 570 goals.