Not for sale! Bayern tell Barcelona, Chelsea & Inter that Germany trio are going nowhere

28 Mar 2012 09:00:00

The European powers have made inquiries about Philipp Lahm, Holger Badstuber and Toni Kroos, but the Bavarians have turned down negotiations, labeling the trio not-for-sale

EXCLUSIVE
By Nikolai Mende & Francois Duchateau

Bayern Munich have a clear picture of their squad for the 2012-13 season. And this vision, without question, includes Toni Kroos, Holger Badstuber, and captain Philipp Lahm.

The Bavarians have in recent weeks had their resolve tested, with the Germany international trio having caught the interest of several of Europe's top clubs. But after receiving inquiries, Bayern were quick to dismiss any possibility of selling their stars.

Goal.com can confirm that in recent weeks Barcelona tried in vain to acquire Lahm, and Chelsea had an approach for Badstuber turned down. The Bayern bosses agree: no key player will leave the club - all offers will be rejected.

The Catalan giants have in the past been linked with Lahm, and with left-back Eric Abidal aging and in need of a liver operation, recently reignited their interest. But since the Bavarians turned down a transfer, Barca have set their sights on Valencia defender Jordi Alba instead.

Chelsea also were keen to sign a Bayern defender, with John Terry growing older and David Luiz having not always convinced. The Blues are set for a coaching change this summer, and Badstuber was among their candidates as an alternative in central defence. But the Bavarians were unwilling to hear their offer.

Furthermore, Goal.com can confirm that Inter have been watching Toni Kroos for the last two years. However, Bayern blocked any contact between the player and the Italian side, who, similarly to the Blues, have in recent weeks become more concerned with finding a new coach than adding players, following the sacking of Claudio Ranieri.

Barcelona, Chelsea and Inter will continue their search for new signings, but will have to turn their attentions elsewhere, as the Bavarians have made their position clear. This season, Lahm, Kroos and Badstuber have been key figures for Bayern, having made a combined 118 appearances in all competitions.