The clock is ticking for Manuel Neuer at Bayern Munich. At 39, the German legend’s storied career is winding down, and the Bavarian giants are already scouting for his long-term replacement. Their top target? Brighton’s rising star Bart Verbruggen.
The 22-year-old Dutch keeper left Anderlecht two seasons ago and has quickly become a standout for Brighton, currently sitting seventh in the Premier League. His reflexes and composure have also earned him the starting spot for the Netherlands, where he shone during last summer’s Euro semifinal run.
Barcelona’s been lurking too—Verbruggen’s name has popped up as a potential heir to Marc-André ter Stegen. But Bayern’s need is more urgent. With Neuer’s backup options—Sven Ulreich (36), Daniel Peretz (24), and Jonas Urbig (21)—all getting minutes this season, the club’s hunt for a new No. 1 is no secret.
According to The Telegraph, Verbruggen’s the front-runner. Young, proven, and already comfortable under pressure, he fits the mold of a keeper ready to step into Neuer’s massive gloves. The question isn’t if Bayern will sign a successor—it’s when.
