Bayern Munich extends Konrad Laimer's contract to 2029 after months-long salary poker

The extension

Bayern Munich announced on Monday evening, 20 July 2026, that Konrad Laimer has signed a two-year contract extension, keeping him at the Allianz Arena until June 2029. The 29-year-old Austrian joined the club on a free transfer from RB Leipzig in the summer of 2023, after six seasons in Leipzig and earlier development in the Red Bull Salzburg academy, which included three loan spells at FC Liefering. Since arriving in Munich, Laimer has made 136 competitive appearances, scoring 7 goals and providing 20 assists (per SAPO) or 21 assists (per Blick). His previous contract was due to expire in 2027. The announcement came just one day after the 2026 World Cup final.

The salary poker

The extension concludes a months-long negotiation that German media labelled a "Poker". At the centre of the dispute was Laimer's salary demand, which the club's hierarchy considered excessive. In May, honorary president Uli Hoeness publicly addressed the standoff in an interview with DAZN, acknowledging Laimer's work ethic but insisting that "such players must accept that there are limits". The comment, widely reported in Germany, captured the tension. According to media reports, Laimer's previous deal paid a base salary of 8 to 9 million euros per year, with performance bonuses pushing the total to around 12 million euros. The new contract reportedly includes a pay rise, though exact terms were not disclosed. The agreement was reached after both sides softened their positions.

Laimer works incredibly hard for the team. But he is not Maradona. And such players must accept that there are limits.

Laimer's role under Kompany

Under head coach Vincent Kompany, Laimer became a pivotal figure in Bayern's 2025-26 double-winning campaign. Kompany often used him as a full-back, exploiting his defensive reliability and tactical intelligence. Laimer's versatility was also evident at the 2026 World Cup, where he started all four of Austria's matches before their round of 16 exit to eventual champions Spain (0-3). His consistent performances for club and country cemented his status as a key squad member.

What they said

Laimer expressed his delight at the extension, calling it "very special" to wear the Bayern shirt and stressing that he has felt happy since his first day at the club. He added that he is ready to contribute in multiple positions. Sport director Max Eberl praised Laimer's reliability and character, describing him as a player who motivates those around him.

It is very special to wear the FC Bayern shirt. I have often said how happy I am in Munich and how much fun I have playing football in this team. I've felt that since day one here, I can help the team in several positions and I want to keep giving everything for the club.

We are pleased that Konny is continuing his path at FC Bayern. Reliability at the top level is his name, and with his skills and character he is an important part of the team. He is a player who carries others along and motivates them, every single day.

What's next

With the contract saga resolved, Laimer can focus on the 2026-27 season, where Bayern will aim to defend their Bundesliga title and compete in the Champions League. The extension secures a versatile, experienced player who has proven his worth across defence and midfield.