The Bavarian striker has publicly announced his intention to leave Bavaria, but his departure is far from official.
Bayern Munich president Herbert Hainer says he is “confident” that Robert Lewandowski will not get a transfer this summer, despite strong rumors linking him to FC Barcelona.
“A contract is a contract”
Lewandowski has confirmed he will not extend his contract at the Allianz Arena following the club’s 10th consecutive Bundesliga title, sparking intense speculation over his future.
The 33-year-old went further ahead of the latest international break by insisting his ‘Bayern story is over’. Barca are now said to be ahead of the race to secure his services, but Hainer still expects him to honor his contract for another season.
Not to miss
The Bayern boss believes Lewandowski should have kept his future plans quiet, as he said in an interview with BILD: “A contract is a contract! Where do we go if a player can end a contract prematurely when we as a club should pay it in full until the last day of the period?
“I was a little surprised that Robert chose to go public, I wouldn’t have done it in his place.
“Bayern is a club that treats its players very well, that does everything to allow them to give their best. And I must say that the appreciation is not one-sided!”
“I am convinced that Lewandowski will be with us next season”
According to Hainer, Bayern have no reason to sell Lewandowski this summer and they don’t fear the striker will be tempted by a move to Barca or other suitors at this stage.
“We are in the fortunate position of not having financial difficulties,” he added. “We want to have the best players and Robert is one of the best.
“That’s why I’m convinced he will be with us again next season. Robert is a professional in his own right, he wants to play football.”
Update on Sadio Mané and Serge Gnabry
Bayern are reportedly preparing a deal for Liverpool’s Sadio Mané to increase their attacking options for 2022-23.
Hainer isn’t commenting on the Senegal international’s possible move, but he claimed no player is beyond the reach of the German giants.
“If we really want a player, we are capable of getting him, but he has to suit us,” he said.
The Allianz Arena president also discussed Serge Gnabry’s contract situation as the 26-year-old is expected to become a free agent at the same time as Lewandowski as things stand.
Former Arsenal player Gnabry has been mooted for a return to the Premier League, and Hainer admits contract renewal talks are not going smoothly.
“Unfortunately there hasn’t been an agreement yet. There are still a few different ideas,” he said when asked about the winger.