Hiroki Ito could leave Bayern Munich before the summer transfer window closes after the Japan international was offered to Ajax, according to German outlet tz.de.
Representatives of the 26-year-old defender have approached the Amsterdam club, which is considering Ito as one of several possible options to strengthen its defence.
Ito joined Bayern Munich from VfB Stuttgart in the summer of 2024 for a reported fee of 23.5m euros. However, injuries have restricted his involvement since moving to the Bundesliga champions, and he has made 31 appearances for the club in total.
He has not featured for Bayern Munich so far this season. Ito was absent from the German Super Cup victory over VfB Stuttgart, which Bayern won 2-1, and was also not involved in the opening Bundesliga match against the same opposition, a 5-1 victory.
Bayern Munich have previously been reported to be willing to allow Ito to leave during the current transfer window. His contract with the club runs until 2028, while his current market value is estimated at 18m euros.
Ajax are assessing the defender as a potential addition to their back line, although it is not clear whether the Dutch club has made a formal offer. The information reported by tz.de concerns an approach by Ito’s representatives rather than a completed transfer or confirmed agreement between the clubs.
Ito’s possible departure comes after a difficult period in Munich, where injuries have prevented him from establishing himself as a regular member of the team. Despite having several years remaining on his contract, Bayern Munich could sanction a move if suitable conditions are agreed before the window closes.
The Bundesliga club could also see another defender leave before the deadline. France international Sacha Boey is interested in moving away from Bayern Munich, although there are currently no specific offers for him.
Unlike Ito, whose representatives have reportedly presented his situation to Ajax, Boey does not yet have a concrete proposal from another club. Bayern Munich therefore face two separate defensive situations as they consider their squad for the remainder of the season.
Ito’s immediate future remains unresolved, with Ajax weighing up whether to pursue their interest and Bayern Munich prepared to consider his departure. The Japanese defender’s contract gives the club control over his situation, but his limited involvement since arriving from VfB Stuttgart and his absence from Bayern’s first two competitive matches of the season have increased uncertainty over his place in the squad.