Thiago Alcantara’s future has been hitting the headlines this summer. The 29-year-old playmaker has entered the final year of his contract at Bayern.
Since he’s been reluctant to pledge his long-term future to the Bundesliga side, the Spaniard has emerged as a transfer target for many Europe’s top clubs.
Liverpool and Manchester United are said to be the leading candidates to land the ex-Barcelona star. The Reds are by many in the driving seat, with Jurgen Klopp looking to reinforce his midfield department.
But, the reigning Bundesliga champions continue to insist on Thiago’s £27million price tag. The Bavarians’ valuation has so far deterred the interested clubs from making a move.
Bayern chief Uli Hoeness has now hit out at Liverpool and Manchester United, accusing them of trying to blackmail the German side into offloading their midfielder.
“It is a difficult situation,” he told Sport1. “A while ago, we agreed on a new four-year contract. Some days later he said: ‘I’m looking for a new challenge.’ – which is totally okay.
“I think he obviously has an agreement with Liverpool or Manchester United or both of them. Now both clubs are bluffing, and no one has contacted Bayern Munich officially.
“From my point of view, that has no style. They’re trying to blackmail us by waiting until the last week when they’re going to make a cheap offer.
“In that case, FC Bayern have to ask themselves the question: do they want to go along with that or do they tell the player that he has to stay.
“It’s going to be a hot three weeks until [the transfer window closes on] October 5.”
