Robert Lewandowski has told Bayern he ‘WILL NOT’ renew contract this summer as Barcelona circle superstar striker
ROBERT LEWANDOWSKI has told Bayern he “WILL NOT” renew his contract as Barcelona circle for the star.
The Pole has been linked with a move to the Spanish giants, having snubbed a new deal at Bayern.
Lewandowski’s deal has one year left to run and expires in June 2023 – the German giants risk losing him for nothing if they don’t sell this summer.
The 33-year-old striker said: “I can confirm that I spoke to Hasan [Salihamidzic] and informed him that the decision was made and that I am not extending my contract with Bayern.
“Both sides have to think about the future. It’s best if we find the best solution for both sides.
“I said to Salihamidzic that if an offer comes, then we have to think about it — also for the club. Both sides have to think about the future. That’s all I can say.”
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Sporting director Salihamidzic had earlier hinted Bayern, who won a TENTH successive Bundesliga title this season, may keep Lewandowski in Germany for his final year.
He said: “I spoke with Lewa. In that discussion he informed me that he does not want to accept our offer to extend the contract and that he would like to leave the club.
“He said he wants to do something else. But our position has not changed.
“The fact is he has a contract to June 30, 2023.”
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Lewandowski is Bayern’s second-highest scorer ever with 344 goals in 375 since joining from rivals Borussia Dortmund in 2014.
He has won eight Bundesliga titles, the Champions League, three German Cups and the Club World Cup.
According to The Times, Barca have agreed a three-year deal with Lewandowski and believe they can sign him for a fee between £25million and £35m.
Amid links to the 33-year-old, Barca boss Xavi was recently asked if he would be willing to recruit veterans this summer
He replied: “It’s not age, it’s performance. Players take care of themselves so much and every year they are more professional.
“Ibrahimovic, Modric, Dani Alves, they all have a very high performance at important clubs.
“Cristiano and Messi too. Age is not a priority. If it improves us, that’s the important thing.”
Lewandowski has also been linked with a move to the Premier League.
Chelsea and Manchester United have been known to admire the Pole in the past.
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Earlier this year, Sky Sports Germany reporter Marc Behrenbeck said: “What we know about Lewandowski and his agent Pini Zahavi…
“Lewandowski really wants to have this one big move, to Spain or the Premier League. Really great markets for players.
“So Lewandowski and his agent will try to get this move in the summer.”
The prolific forward appeared to well up as he waved to Bayern fans after their 2-2 draw at Wolfsburg today.
Some fans felt that he was waving goodbye to his adoring crowd, having played for Bayern for eight years.