Philipp Lahm To Move To Left Of Defence As Bayern Munich Search For A Right-Back

As they begin early preparations for next season, Bayern Munich have begun their search for a right-sided defender, reports from Germany suggest.

According to Muenchner Merkur, Bayern’s scouts have been instructed to look for a right full-back and a centre back, with the intention being for Philipp Lahm to swap flanks and return to the left, where he played before Louis van Gaal became head coach in 2009.

If Bayern are indeed searching for a right back, it casts a shadow upon the possibility of a move for left-footed Benfica defender Fabio Coentrao.

The Portugal international had previously been closely linked with Bayern, although suspected incoming coach Jupp Heynckes may prefer a more defensive-minded option.

The report also confirmed that Schalke goalkeeper Manuel Neuer will join Bayern in the summer. Not long ago, the Germany international was declared off-limits by coach Felix Magath, however, since the Schalke boss has been sacked, and die Knappen are in need of money, a move appears to be likely.