Bayern Munich complete Sane signing from Manchester City

Munich (dpa) – Germany winger Leroy Sane completed his transfer to Bayern Munich by signing a five-year contract to move to the Bundesliga champions from Manchester City, Bayern announced on Friday.

The former Premier League champions had hoped to keep the 24-year-old but Sane rejected an extension to his contract which was due to expire in 2021.

“He is an outstanding player who as proven his qualities over the past few years, especially in the national team,” said Bayern chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge in a club statement.

Sane is set to prepare for the upcoming season in Munich from next week onwards. “FC Bayern is a great club with big goals – and these goals suit me as well”, Sane said. “I’m looking forward to the new challenge and can’t wait to train with the team.”

Bayern did not confirm the transfer fee paid for the 21-times capped Germany player but it would have decreased massively since their original interest last year.

Then a potential 100-million-euro (112.9-million-dollar) move was rumoured but a combination of the Sane’s contract having a year less to run and the coronavirus crisis slashed the fee.

Bayern will reportedly pay less than 50 million euros initially with various add-ons also included in the deal.

Sane is Bayern’s third signing for the new season after the free transfers of goalkeeper Alexander Nuebel from Schalke and young defender Tanguy Nianzou Kouassi from Paris Saint-Germain.

The transfer meets coach Hansi Flick’s wish for a top class wide player, an area of the side he previously identified to be improved.

Now, a year after the departure of legendary wing duo Franck Ribery and Arjen Robben, Bayern are again well-equipped on the flanks with Sane joining international team-mate Serge Gnabry and French flyer Kingsley Coman.

Ivan Perisic, on loan from Inter Milan, could also be signed permanently to add further cover and some experience.

“We have a young team with potential,” said former president Uli Hoeness. “I can well imagine, when all runs well, the start of a new era for Bayern Munich.”