Bayern Munich are in advanced negotiations over signing Bayer Leverkusen centre-back Jonathan Tah ahead of Barcelona, Manchester United and Real Madrid, it has emerged.

The Bundesliga giants chased Tah’s signature last summer but failed to strike an agreement over a suitable fee with Leverkusen, prompting the defender to admit his intentions to depart on a free transfer when his contract expires this summer.

Seen as a significant bargain due to his free agency status, Tah has attracted interest from most of Europe’s elite. Barcelona were seen as favourites for the majority of the season but have failed to make a formal offer to the defender, who also has admirers at both United and Madrid.

Bayern were prepared to let Tah move elsewhere before being rocked by Eric Dier’s decision to leave this summer. The newly crowned champions once again need a new centre-back and have set their sights firmly on Tah.

The Athletic state negotiations between Bayern and Tah are close to a positive conclusion. A three-year contract is on the table which would also include the option for a further 12 months.

As noted by Florian Plettenberg, such an offer is “very attractive” to Tah. The suggestion is that he has already agreed to Bayern’s proposal and all that is missing is Tah’s final approval of a move to Munich.

It is stressed that Barcelona, led by fellow German Hansi Flick, have not yet given up hope of signing Tah. A verbal agreement was reached between the two parties earlier this season but financial concerns have prevented Barcelona from formalising their desire to sign the defender.

Despite the threat of a late move from Barcelona, Bayern remain confident of wrapping up a deal for Tah, whose time with Leverkusen will end on Saturday after their final Bundesliga outing against Mainz.