Speaking in an interview with SportBILD, Bayern Munich director Hasan Salihamidzic has claimed that he does not think about Barcelona returning with an improved offer for Robert Lewandowski, before adding that he expects the striker to remain at the Allianz Arena.
The Robert Lewandowski transfer saga has been dominating the headlines for the past month or so. The 33-year-old is entering the final year of his contract with Die Roten and has decided against penning a new deal as he seeks a new challenge in his career.
Lewandowski has made his wishes clear publicly, while also insisting that he is not considering any other offers apart from the one from Barcelona. Indeed, an agreement over a three-year contract is already understood to be in place.
However, Bayern Munich are unwilling to let go of their star striker and remain firm that he still has a year left on his contract, which they expect him to see out.
Barça had made a bid for the Poland captain worth €32 million plus add-ons, but it fell on deaf ears in Bavaria. However, the Catalan giants are touted to return with an improved offer worth around €50 million for Lewandowski imminently.
But, that does not deter Salihamidzic, who insists that he expects the legendary striker to return to pre-season training at the club next month.
Speaking to SportBILD about the possibility of an improved offer from Barcelona, he said: “I don’t care about that. I’m expecting to see Robert in training at Säbener Straße on July 12.”
When asked if Bayern Munich were signing Sadio Mane from Liverpool to secure their future in case of Lewandowski’s departure, he added: “I understand your question, but our position is clear: Robert has a contract until the summer of 2023.”
But with Lewandowski also unwilling to move from his stance of wanting to leave Bayern for Barcelona, this has the making of a long-drawn-out saga this summer.