Liverpool and Arsenal Making Regular Checks on Bayern Munich Teenager Lennart Karl

Liverpool and Arsenal are among several Premier League clubs closely monitoring Bayern Munich's highly promising 17-year-old attacking midfielder Lennart Karl ahead of his 18th birthday on Sunday, February 22, 2026[1][2][3]. The German wonderkid, a Germany U21 international with two caps and three goals, has impressed with four appearances and three goals in the 2025/2026 Bundesliga season, plus notable Champions League outings where he became Bayern's youngest-ever goalscorer[3][4][5].

Bayern view Karl as a future cornerstone, having fast-tracked him into the first team with five Champions League starts and 11 Bundesliga appearances this season[1][4]. His current contract runs until June 2028, with a market value of €60 million and a reported club valuation of €80-90 million to ward off suitors[3]. Despite interest from Europe's elite—including Real Madrid, Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, Chelsea, and Manchester City—Karl and his representatives, including agent Michael Ballack, have firmly stated he sees his future solely at Bayern and is not pushing for a move[1][2][3][5].

In a proactive double-deal strategy, Bayern have an agreement to extend Karl's contract upon turning 18, potentially to 2029, with talks underway for a further four-year deal until 2030 or 2031[1][2][4][5]. This follows his recent apology for calling Real Madrid a "dream" destination, which irked fans but hasn't altered his commitment[5]. Sources emphasize his determination to become a centerpiece for Bayern's next generation amid the circling clubs[1].

While Premier League giants like Liverpool and Arsenal maintain regular contact, Bayern's confidence in Karl's loyalty positions them to thwart any raids, solidifying his role in their long-term plans[1][6].

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