Bayern Munich legend and chairman Oliver Kahn has ruled out the sale of Barcelona target Robert Lewandowski despite his refusal to sign a new deal.
The future of Robert Lewandowski has been the talk of the town of late as the striker finds himself pushing for an exit from Bayern Munich this summer. The 33-year-old is entering the final year of his contract with the club this summer and has rejected a new contract, insisting that he wants a fresh challenge in his career.
Barcelona have been interested in signing the Poland international and have made him their top target to reinforce their frontline. However, despite the striker’s refusal to pen a new deal, Bayern Munich are refusing to give in and plan to keep Lewandowski at the club until the end of his current contract.
Speaking on the matter, the Bundesliga champions’ chairman, Oliver Kahn, confirmed the club’s stance. As quoted by The Athletic, the former goalkeeper said: “We know this alarmism from the past. It’s not something that causes us a headache. We made an offer to his agent. He rejected this offer. That’s his right. The fact is: He has a contract and he will fulfil it.
“We are very clear and consistent about that. That’s the way things are here at Bayern. There is no player above the club,” the Bayern Munich chairman added.
❗ Oliver Kahn on Lewandowski: "We know this alarmism from the past. It's not something that causes us a headache. We made an offer to his agent. He rejected this offer. That's his right. The fact is: He has a contract and he will fulfill it. Basta!" [@BR24sport] pic.twitter.com/XL4plvG5k1
— Bayern & Germany (@iMiaSanMia) May 15, 2022
Kahn’s comments come after Lewandowski himself issued a statement confirming his desire to not renew his contract and move on from the Allianz Arena this summer. The Poland captain told Sky Germany (h/t The Athletic): “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.”
Lewandowski has been with Bayern Munich since 2014 when he signed from Bundesliga rivals Borussia Dortmund on a Bosman deal. The 33-year-old has plundered close to 350 goals for the German champions, with 50 of those coming in the 2021/22 campaign. While Barcelona are waiting to pounce for his signing, it remains to be seen if Bayern are willing to relent from their stance.
