Bayern scouting Callum Hudson-Odoi because that’s what all big teams do

Bayern Munich, sitting a surprising second, six points behind Borussia Dortmund, in the Bundesliga table at the break, are in need of renewing their ageing squad, if not for this season, then definitely the next. This is the biggest reason to the deluge of rumors linking them with Callum Hudson-Odoi, the 18-year-old crown jewel of Chelsea’s Academy. Of course, it helps that Hudson-Odoi has not renewed his contract with the club (yet) and has not played as much this season as one might have expected.

Still, a transfer is far from a foregone conclusion, even if the speculation would have us believe otherwise. For now, there’s nothing confirmed beyond just unspecific interest, as confirmed by Bayern head coach Niko Kovac.

“We always need young players. It is my job and the job of [Bayern sporting director] Hasan Salihamidzic to change the team as the team does not get any younger.”

“If a player is good it doesn’t matter how old he is. We are looking for younger talented players but also players who are ready because the young talented players need time to develop. It is completely normal that we are aware of and are following the player. For if and when something will happen you will have to ask [Salihamidzic].”

-Niko Kovac; Source: Evening Standard

Bayern may be used to poaching the rest of the Bundesliga for any talent they want, but Chelsea will surely be a tougher customer. Given the Blues’ injury crisis, Hudson-Odoi might even be in line for increased minutes, which will hopefully convince him to tie his future to the only club he’s ever known since beginning his football adventure at an early age.