Arsenal & Liverpool Snubbed by Bayern Munich Winger Over Summer Transfer

As the summer transfer window heats up, it seems Arsenal and Liverpool have both suffered a blow in their search for attacking reinforcements.

Leroy Sane, the dazzling Bayern Munich winger whose future had been hanging in the balance for much of the season, has reportedly decided to turn down interest from England and commit his future to the Bundesliga giants instead.

In a summer that promises plenty of twists and turns, Sane’s decision marks a major early development. Let’s take a deeper look at why Arsenal and Liverpool were so keen, why Sane ultimately said no, and what this means for all parties involved.

Leroy Sane Approaching End of Current Bayern Munich Contract

Leroy Sane has enjoyed a better 2025 / Christina Pahnke – sampics/GettyImages

Heading into the back end of the 2024/25 season, Leroy Sane’s contract situation had become one of the more intriguing storylines in European football.

The former Manchester City star’s deal with Bayern Munich was set to expire this summer, meaning he was free to talk to other clubs. Given his pedigree — a lethal combination of blistering pace, technical brilliance, and goal-scoring ability — it’s no surprise that several Premier League heavyweights were paying close attention.

In particular, Arsenal and Liverpool were believed to be exploring the possibility of snapping him up on a free transfer, an opportunity far too tempting to ignore considering the financial advantages.

There were even whispers that Manchester United were monitoring the situation, albeit in a more speculative manner. However, it was Arsenal and Liverpool who made the most concrete moves.

Arsenal & Liverpool Understood to Have Explored a Free Transfer

Both Arsenal and Liverpool had strong, logical reasons to pursue Sane.

At Arsenal, Mikel Arteta’s connection with Sane from their time together at Manchester City added an extra layer of intrigue. Arteta is said to be a huge admirer of Sane’s talents and was reportedly keen to bring him to North London to bolster the Gunners’ wide options, especially with question marks lingering over the future of several squad players.

For Liverpool, the interest was equally understandable. Despite tying down Mohamed Salah to a new deal, there is still a sense at Anfield that their attack could use fresh blood. Sane’s direct style, experience, and proven Premier League pedigree made him a perfect fit for the high-intensity football that Liverpool have long made their trademark.

A free transfer for a player of Sane’s calibre would have been a sensational piece of business for either club. But as it turns out, it wasn’t meant to be.

Winger Now Expected to Ink Fresh Terms in Germany Instead

Despite the interest from England, Leroy Sane has reportedly decided to stay put.

According to multiple reports out of Germany, Sane has agreed to extend his contract with Bayern Munich until 2028, snubbing advances from Arsenal and Liverpool in the process. Christian Falk was among the first to break the news, highlighting that Bayern’s internal push — led by teammates like Harry Kane and close friend Jamal Musiala — played a significant role in convincing the winger to stay.

Interestingly, it’s believed that Sane has accepted a significant pay cut to remain at the Allianz Arena, a move that speaks volumes about his desire to continue his journey in Bavaria.

For Bayern, keeping Sane is a major win. Under new manager Vincent Kompany, Sane has been gradually re-establishing himself as a vital piece of the puzzle, racking up ten goals and five assists across 16 Bundesliga starts and 11 substitute appearances this season. Almost all of that production has come in 2025, highlighting just how crucial he has become as Bayern pushed towards yet another league title.

Why Sane’s Decision Matters for Arsenal and Liverpool

Sane’s snub leaves both Arsenal and Liverpool having to rethink their summer plans.

For Arsenal, the Gunners are still on the hunt for an elite wide attacker who can complement Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli. With Sane off the table, attention is expected to shift back towards Nico Williams of Athletic Club — another exciting winger who has been consistently linked with a move to the Premier League.

Liverpool, meanwhile, are likely to double down on their efforts to land a new central striker rather than a wide player. Their successful contract renewal with Salah eases the urgency somewhat, but there is a consensus at Anfield that adding a new No.9 is the key to maintaining their edge next season.

Still, missing out on Sane stings. A player of his experience and ability could have elevated either squad to new heights, especially given the bargain nature of a free transfer.

The Bayern Munich Perspective: A New Era Under Vincent Kompany

From Bayern Munich’s point of view, keeping Leroy Sane is a strong statement of intent.

The club has been undergoing a bit of a transition phase, with Vincent Kompany tasked with ushering in a new era. Veterans like Thomas Muller and Manuel Neuer are winding down their storied careers, and Bayern’s management is keen to ensure they retain enough high-level quality in key positions.

By tying Sane down until 2028, Bayern not only keep a world-class winger but also signal to potential new recruits that the club remains a top destination for the game’s elite.

Moreover, Sane’s relationship with younger talents like Musiala helps create a continuity within the squad — a crucial factor for any team looking to build a dynasty rather than just a one-off success.

Conclusion: Arsenal and Liverpool Left Searching for Alternatives

In the grand scheme of things, Arsenal and Liverpool missing out on Leroy Sane isn’t the end of the world — but it does alter the shape of their respective summer windows.

Arsenal still need a high-quality winger to add depth and competition in wide areas, while Liverpool’s attention now shifts fully to finding a new striker capable of leading the line in the seasons ahead.

As for Sane, he seems set to continue lighting up the Bundesliga for the foreseeable future, much to the delight of Bayern Munich fans and to the frustration of those hoping for a Premier League reunion.

This transfer saga may be over, but with plenty of other targets and possibilities still in play, expect Arsenal, Liverpool, and the rest of Europe’s giants to stay very busy in the months ahead.

The summer is just getting started.