Bayern Munich defender Benjamin Pavard skipped training this week to force through a move to Serie A giants Inter Milan, according to Calciomercato.
The French defender has made it clear that he wants to leave the Bavarian club and is ready to force the issue to make it happen.
Bayern are intent on retaining Pavard this summer as they do not have a replacement lined up for him.
Die Rekordmeister tried to sign Kyle Walker from Manchester City, but the treble winners fought hard to keep him.
He has agreed to sign a new deal with the Cityzens forcing Bayern to look elsewhere.
There have been links to other right-backs, but Bayern do not feel they are up to the standard required at the club.
Bayern manager Thomas Tuchel has stepped into the situation to play as a mediator.
The former Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain boss called Pavard’s agent Pini Zahavi to convince him to stay for the season.
However, Bayern face the risk of losing him on a free transfer next summer when his contract expires.
The World Cup-winning defender has shown no inclination that he will sign a new deal. He wants a new challenge and a change of environment.
Inter have set a Tuesday deadline to get the deal done. The Nerazzurri want to wrap up their business and not remain short-handed when the window closes.
Inter lost Milan Skriniar for free to PSG, and they need to find a replacement ahead of the new season.
Pavard can also deputise for Stefan De Vrij in the middle of Simone Inzaghi’s back three.
It will be intriguing to see whether Pavard’s actions will force Bayern to sell. They are adamant that they want to retain him despite him having only 12 months left on his deal.
