It will end an era in Bayern this summer when Jerome Boateng leaves Bayern Munich when his contract expires.
The German international has made over 350 appearances for the Bundesliga giants and is on his way to winning a ninth title in a row with Bayern Munich, after winning two Champions League crowns.
After a decade at the Allianz Arena, the question on everyone’s lips was next for Boateng? Here, 90min drives you through his possible options, ranked by suitability.
Carlo Ancelotti: “Jerome Boateng is a fantastic central defender, but only eleven players can play. I will rotate the midfielders.” pic.twitter.com/meqaWbZhnV
– Squawka News (@SquawkaNews) March 11, 2017
Everton boss Carlo Ancelotti has already used his high-profile contacts to take James Rodriguez to Goodison Park, so why not the repeat trick with Boateng?
The two merged in Bayern Munich and won two Bundesliga titles and DFB Pokal crowns. As Toffees are keen to break into Europe, Boateng’s winning experience can be a huge boost on larger and brighter stages.
Unfortunately, Boateng’s salaries are quite astronomical – and having invested heavily in the likes of Ben Godfrey, Yerry Mina and Michael Keane, a move is probably a bit of a start.
Suitability – 3/10
Boateng looks good in a white kit | Pool / Getty Images
Experience is something that Jose Mourinho values more than most managers, which makes Boateng a potentially good signing for Spurs.
Boateng has experience in the Premier League after spending a season at Manchester City a decade ago, but he has improved his leap since then.
He would take the lead for the team, while bringing with him a winning mentality. Once again, however, salaries – like his age and Mourinho’s future in the air – make it difficult to see a deal achieved.
Suitability – 4/10
Serie A could call its name ANDREAS GEBERT / Getty Images
If there is one major league in Europe that older defenders tend to do better, it is Serie A.
Antonio Conte’s Inter looks to win Serie A for the first time since 2009/10 and does so with a solid defensive record. But when they want to strengthen themselves before the new season, Boateng becomes an interesting alternative.
With his ability on the ball and in the air, plus the experience he would bring, he would undoubtedly make Inter stronger. They do not need him very much, but Conte has a strange obsession with signing too many defenders. Not one to rule out.
Suitability – 5/10
Boateng could fit Arsenal’s style of play from behind Alexander Hassenstein / Getty Images
Arsenal have tried to carry out a back-to-back game and Boateng has gained a reputation in Germany for being one of the best in the business to do so.
It is unlikely that Mikel Arteta can offer Boateng Champions League football, but Arsenal are still a big club and he is good enough to compete for a starting role. That alone could tempt him, but alternatives at the Emirates would have to be shown the door.
Suitability – 6/10
Boateng can be a cheap replacement for a legend | Marco Luzzani / Getty Images
No club in Europe makes free transfers like Juventus and it could be another deal to explore.
Since legendary defender Giorgio Chiellini is unlikely to extend his contract beyond this summer, will Juve need to replace their skipper and what better way than with another World Cup winner?
Boateng fits the bill to be experienced, strong, good on the ball, as well as a leader. The 32-year-old can be perfect.
Suitability – 7/10
Can they be teammates next season? | Pool / Getty Images
Because Boateng thought he had stratospheric wages, it is unlikely that he would want a significant drop in income if he did not really have to.
Enter, Paris Saint-Germain.
The Ligue 1 champions always want to add to their squad and with Marquinhos and Presnel Kimpembe the only real midfield opportunities at Mauricio Pochettino’s disposal, Boateng crosses many boxes.
He can rotate in and out of the side, and PSG would save money on a transfer fee by bringing him in. Win-win for everyone.
Suitability – 8/10
Boateng has been known to suffer injury problems throughout his career and while he is still good enough to play at the top level, a move to MLS may be his best bet.
He would make a lot of money over there as a franchise player, could play for several more years and seemed to like the style of sunshine and offer NBA basketball to look at the side.
He would not be short of suitors over there either, and there will surely be enough money in a number of treasuries.
Suitability – 9/10
