Fulham goalkeeper Bernd Leno is reportedly being lined up by Bayern Munich as a potential replacement for the iconic Manuel Neuer, according to German outlet BILD.

The 34-year-old has been one of the Premier League's most dependable shot-stoppers since arriving in West London four years ago, making him a significant figure for the Cottagers — and a potentially costly loss if Bayern move first.

An "easy" deal for Bayern?

BILD describes the prospective transfer as an "easy" one to complete, with Leno earmarked as backup to Neuer at the Allianz Arena. The role would be a familiar one: during his Germany career, Leno played second fiddle to Neuer throughout, earning just nine international caps since his debut in 2016.

Circumstances at Bayern have shifted, however. Neuer, 40, stepped away from international duty earlier this summer, and is now in his 16th season at the club. That extended timeline may present Leno with a genuine opportunity to challenge — or eventually claim — the No.1 shirt, should Neuer's career wind down.

A history of challengers falling short

Bayern have pursued similar moves before, each time discovering that Neuer is not easily displaced. In 2020, Alexander Nubel arrived from Schalke with considerable fanfare, yet Neuer dismissed the signing as "irrelevant" and went on to captain the side to six trophies that season. Yann Sommer and Daniel Peretz have also served as understudies at the Allianz Arena, with Sommer stepping in only when Neuer suffered a broken leg in a skiing accident. Neither managed to hold the position beyond those circumstances.

Fulham hold the cards

Despite the reported Bayern interest, Fulham are under no obligation to sell. Leno joined the club from Arsenal for just £8 million — a deal widely considered a bargain at the time — and the club holds an option to extend his contract through to 2028. Transfermarkt values Leno at €6 million, meaning Fulham could realistically recoup their original outlay if a sale is agreed.

Leno and Fulham return to Premier League action after the international break when the Cottagers face Ipswich Town.