Bayern president responds to Barcelona’s interest in Joshua Kimmich

Bayern Munich president Herbert Hainer has condemned Barcelona’s approach in their quest to sign German midfielder Joshua Kimmich this summer.

Barca manager Xavi Hernandez has been public about his interest in the Germany international amid their search for a new defensive midfielder following Sergio Busquets’ departure.

Kimmich has emerged as a priority target for the Blaugranas after seeing their attempts at signing Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi fail spectacularly.

Barca have been boosted by reports suggesting Kimmich is open to joining the Spanish champions in a move that will reunite him with former teammate Robert Lewandowski.

The midfielder was reportedly unsettled by the unceremonious departure of former manager Julian Nagelsmann which nearly cost Die Manschaaft their highly coveted Bundesliga title.

Kimmich is reportedly considering a move away from the Allianz Arena, and Barca have already seen their first approach for the defensive midfielder rejected. 

The Bayern president has issued a hands-off warning to Barca, who he claims are openly ‘flirting’ with the player.

“First of all, Xavi was an excellent player, and I have big respect for Barcelona,” Hainer told Sky Sport Germany. “But I don’t understand why they’re openly and offensively ‘flirting’ with our player. 

“Joshua Kimmich is an absolute cornerstone for us. He is a leader, has won many titles with us, and will continue to win titles with us in the future. He’s firmly in our plans for the future and one of the players to build the team around.”

Thomas Tuchel is keen to strengthen his squad ahead of next season, and reports suggest several players are expected to leave Bayer this summer, including defender Lucas Hernandez.

Hainer wants to keep the Frenchman at the club but admitted he is aware of the interest from French champions Paris Saint-Germain.

Bayern have slapped a €60m asking price on Hernandez and the defender is reportedly keen on joining PSG.

“Lucas is an interesting player for us – high quality, big heart,” Hainer added. “I heard of the interest from PSG, but we want to keep him. Let’s see what will happen in summer.