Paul Wanner's return to Bayern Munich hinges on several sales and signings | OneFootball

Bayern Munich loanee Paul Wanner’s return to his parent club is contingent upon the future of several attackers, and a few other players who the record champions are reportedly interested in signing next summer. This comes from Wanner’s desire to be a regular first-team player instead of being an option from the bench. The 18-year-old is currently playing for Bundesliga side FC Heidenheim and has already scored five goals this season.

Player outgoings can free up space for the talented youngster

According to SportBild (via @iMiaSanMia), at least one of Serge Gnabry, Leroy Sané, and Kingsley Coman must leave for the 18-year-old to return to the club.

While Paul Wanner has occasionally played as a winger, his natural position is attacking midfielder. Hence, this stipulation is likely to facilitate the freeing up of the wage bill and not necessarily for securing a positional replacement. Wanner earns around €2m per year — which is significantly less than the earnings of the wing trio.

Potential big signings can deter Wanner’s inclination to return

The report also states that signings of high-profile players such as Florian Wirtz or Xavi Simons will decrease the likelihood of Wanner’s return in the summer. With multiple star players available for the number ten role, Wanner would hardly see any playing time, which would severely hinder his development. Even if Wirtz or Simons aren't signed, getting a nailed-on starter role will be very difficult for the youngster, but he could still enjoy a decent amount of playing time as the second-choice midfielder behind Jamal Musiala.

From Bayern's perspective, they can end up saving a ton of money by trusting Wanner and not opting to go for the huge signings. While Wanner’s development looks promising, the final decision rests on the shoulders of Bayern bosses, who will assess if the player is ready to take the next big step in his career.

Top Bundesliga clubs showing interest in Wanner

With Wanner’s future at Bayern still up in the air, clubs like Bayer Leverkusen and RB Leipzig have shown interest in acquiring the services of the talented midfielder. However, the report suggests that Bayern have the 18-year-old in their plans and are not talking to any clubs as of now.

Wanner is getting a taste of European football this season with Heidenhem in the Conference League, but he aims to play at the highest level — the Champions League next season with Die Roten. While both the player and Bayern are in favor of a return, it will largely depend on other factors which will only become more clear as the 2025 summer window approaches.