Bayern Munich director reflects on interest in Erling Haaland, Cristiano Ronaldo & Harry Kane
By Tom Gott
Bayern Munich director Hasan Salihamidzic has revealed an insight into the club's pursuit of a new striker this summer.
The Bundesliga giants were chasing Erling Haaland towards the end of last season but eventually missed out on him to Manchester City, and once Robert Lewandowski asked to leave for Barcelona, Bayern began searching for another high-level replacement.
Most of their interest revolved around Tottenham's Harry Kane and Bayern spoke openly about their admiration of the Englishman - unlike with Cristiano Ronaldo, from whom they distanced themselves very quickly.
Now, in an interview with Sky, Salihamidzic revealed the truth behind the links to all three.
Erling Haaland
What happened with Haaland?
"We were in talks, but it became clear that things might not work out that way for both sides. That's why he's at Manchester City now and that's why we have other players."
Are you annoyed you couldn't get him alongside Sadio Mane?
"No. I'm very happy with how it went. You have to see how the season develops. Sadio is a huge asset for us. He has settled into the team very well and has a top mentality. He's a great boy, trains really well and pulls the team forward in the games. We also have Mathys Tel who we have a lot of respect for and who has a lot of quality. Matthijs de Ligt too, I like that."
Cristiano Ronaldo
Do you feel sorry for Ronaldo for his situation at Man Utd?
"He's an incredibly big personality. A big player who has made his mark on the world of football in recent years. It wasn't an option for us because we were doing other things and we planned for our attack in such a way. But you don't have to feel sorry for him. He's a great footballer who has achieved great things in recent years."
Did you speak to Ronaldo on the phone?
"No."
Did you speak with his agent?
"I often talk to Jorge Mendes. Yes, we spoke."
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Harry Kane
Will Bayern bid for Kane in 2023?
"It's too early to talk about it. If you look at our attack now: we have eight players for four positions. There's a lot of fire in there. If you look at the training sessions, it's great fun to watch. Some training games are better than Bundesliga games. That's why it's much too early to talk about it. The way we play offensively and score many goals, I'm very happy about that."
Sky believe Kane wants to join Bayern.
"That's our pleasure."