Bayern Munich Transfer News: Bayern Munich confirm Mario Gotze is in talks with Borussia Dortmund over possible return
Bayern Munich’s chief executive Karl-Heinz Rummenigge has confirmed that Germany's Mario Gotze is in talks with the representatives from Borussia Dortmund over a potential return to the Westfalenstadion. The 24-year-old famously switched Bayern Munich for Borussia Dortmund three years ago.
Gotze was expected to grow into the player everyone thought he would be by joining the then-Pep Guardiola era of Bayern Munich but like Rummenigge said this week, he's disappointed. “Götze has been at Bayern for three years and it did not work out for him. I am not surprised that Götze wants to leave. He is 24 years old and needs to play regularly.”
Rummenigge also confirmed that Borussia Dortmund has in fact approached the youngster over a possible return back 'home'. “I can confirm that talks with Borussia Dortmund have taken place,” Rummenigge told Sport1. “There have also been talks with his agent, but the deal is not done just yet. Both clubs will have to reach an agreement over a transfer fee first."
The World Cup winning goalscorer joined the Bavarian giants for a reported €37 million back in 2013 and even though he's made 116 appearances for Bayern, he's played almost 1000 minutes less when compared to the 114 appearances he made for Borussia Dortmund.
There were rumours – at the time of Gotze's signing – that Pep Guardiola was interested in signing Brazilian sensation Neymar. Bayern's hierarchy however decided against moving for Neymar instead signing the then-21-year-old German prodigy. Gotze never quite played to his potential at Bayern Munich failing to nail down a starting spot in Pep's team.
With Carlo Ancelotti the new manager of the club, Gotze was once again overlooked. The Italian manager was quoted saying "I've spoken to Mario on the phone. He's aware of my opinion," which almost certainly ruled out the possibility of the youngster prolonging his Bayern career.