Former Real Madrid and Netherlands midfielder Rafael van der Vaart has suggested Bayern Munich should consider signing Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong as they plan for the future of their midfield.

Speaking on the Bild podcast ‘Phrasenmäher’ (h/t SPORT ), Van der Vaart questioned how long Joshua Kimmich will remain Bayern’s central midfield reference point and argued that the German champions need to prepare for a potential change.

His solution was particularly interesting given De Jong’s current situation at Barcelona, with the Dutchman yet to make his first appearance of the 2026/27 season as he continues his recovery from a knee problem.

Van der Vaart believes Bayern cannot afford to wait until the end of Kimmich’s spell at the club before considering alternatives.

“With all due respect, I think Joshua Kimmich’s time could come to an end at some point. And you have to be prepared,” he said.

The former Netherlands international then proposed De Jong as a potential answer to Bayern’s midfield needs.

Van der Vaart has urged Bayern Munich to sign Frenkie de Jong. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

“The arrival of Frenkie would make Bayern an even better team. He could even play at this stage alongside Kimmich.”