Mario Gotze is edging closer to a return to Borussia Dortmund after Bayern Munich chief executive Karl-Heinz Rummenigge confirmed talks are taking place.
The German international has struggled to make an impact in Bavaria since joining the club in 2013, a move which angered the Dortmund faithful who showed their displeasure over a potential reunion last season as speculation first began to circulate.
However, it appears as though that will have little impact on Thomas Tuchel’s plans, as Gotze appears close to a return to the Westfalenstadion, with a £20m fee being touted for a player who has just one year remaining on his contract.
“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.
“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.”
The 24-year-old was linked with a move to Liverpool earlier in the summer, with an obvious link made with former boss Jurgen Klopp who was reportedly keen on a reunion at Anfield.
Elsewhere, Arsenal were also linked with a move as they continue to search for attacking reinforcements ahead of next season, while rivals Tottenham Hotspur were in a similar position with suggestions that they were also monitoring the forward’s situation.
However, it appears as though the Bundesliga will continue to enjoy Gotze’s talents moving forward, and he will be desperate to get back to playing regularly and making a decisive impact, just as he did during his first spell with Dortmund.
Despite insisting that he wanted a future with Bayern, it looks as though coach Carlo Ancelotti is moving in a different direction, one which doesn’t include the World Cup winner.