Bayern Munich held a secret meeting with former manager Pep Guardiola last week, while there is no truth in reports linking the club with a move for Manchester City striker Erling Haaland, Christian Falk has said.
The German journalist said Bayern were monitoring the wider situation at Manchester City but remained focused on retaining Harry Kane, who is already their priority in attack.
Bayern Munich have no room for Haaland, says Falk
“Bayern are focusing on contract talks with their own top striker, Harry Kane,” Falk said. “The talks are going well and the club thinks the Englishman will decide after the international break.”
Falk said Kane could sign a new two-year contract, potentially with the option of a third season. That would leave Vincent Kompany’s side with an established forward and little need to pursue Haaland.
He also pointed to the financial implications of any deal for the Norway international, saying Bayern would have to consider both the transfer fee and the player’s salary.
“Bayern Munich doesn’t tend to pay salaries in the range of what the Norwegian international is earning in Manchester — about €35m (£29.8m), we heard,” Falk said. “It’s an enormous price to take the player out of City before even considering the transfer fee.”
Although Bayern admire Haaland, Falk said there was currently no space for him either in the team or on the wage bill while Kane remains at the club.
Guardiola meeting adds to interest in Manchester City situation
Falk said Bayern’s relationship with Manchester City had prompted senior figures at the German club to keep a close watch on developments. He reported that Karl-Heinz Rummenigge and Uli Hoeneß attended the private meeting with Guardiola.
“So they’re keeping a little quiet at the moment, as they know it’s an issue that also affects Pep,” Falk said, adding that the situation was attracting attention across European football.
Guardiola managed Bayern before taking charge of Manchester City, creating a clear link between the clubs. Falk also said other teams, including Liverpool, were watching the situation, while Jürgen Klopp had stressed that no conclusions could be drawn while the process remained ongoing.
