“We really want to hold him!” Sports director Hasan Salihamidzic confirms talks with Benjamin Pavard about extending the contract

For a long time there were signs of farewell, but now everything looks like Benjamin Pavard will stay at Bayern Munich.

After FC Bayern Munich’s 6-0 thrashing of FC Schalke 04, FCB sporting director Hasan Salihamidzic confirmed talks with Benjamin Pavard and his management regarding an extension of the Frenchman’s contract, which expires in 2024.

“We would love to keep him and are currently in talks with him and his management,” said Salihamidzic after the game.

A few months ago, a future for the 27-year-old with the German record champions was ruled out. Pavard publicly flirted with a farewell and dreamed of Serie A. Barcelona president Joan Laporta called the 2018 world champion a “real option” for the Catalans and a contract extension and could have joined Inter Milan in the winter.

But Pavard became the undisputed player and was increasingly used in the second half of the season in his desired position as central defender. Talks about a possible contract extension are said to have already taken place at the end of March, and Salihamidzic has now confirmed the negotiations.

The 47-time national player has been an absolute regular since the World Cup and has made 41 competitive appearances, seven goals and one assist this season.