Former Manchester United boss Ralf Rangnick has confirmed that Bayern Munich have contacted him over their soon-to-be-vacant manager's post.
The Bundesliga giants will move on from Thomas Tuchel at the end of the season, with the search underway for a successor. Top target Xabi Alonso has already rejected the chance to leave Bayer Leverkusen.
That has forced Bayern into exploring alternative targets, with Rangnick rising up their shortlist. The German is currently in charge of the Austrian national team, having left United in the summer of 2022 after a dismal reign as interim managee.
His time as caretaker ended with a win rate of just 38 per cent after taking charge for the final 29 games of the season. But Rangnick has now confirmed that Bayern are keen to open talks over their vacancy.
" Bayern Munich contacted us and I also informed the OFB about it. We have a very trusting relationship. My focus is on the Austrian national team. We are completely focused on the European Championships. I feel very comfortable here," he told 90Minuten.
"At the moment there is no reason to deal with it intensively and specifically. The moment Bayern would say: We want you. And then I have to ask myself: Do I even want this? I have a close and trusting relationship with my team.
"It won't play better just because I say: I'll definitely be here for the next four years. If I want to do something different, I will first discuss it with the OFB. It's about other things: Can I make a difference? Is there a chance of developing a team and being successful? That's what drives me."
HAVE YOUR SAY! Would Ralf Rangnick be a good choice for Bayern Munich? Comment below.
Rangnick has an extensive history of managing in Germany, having had spells at Stuttgart, Hannover, Schalke, Hoffenheim and RB Leipzig. His time at Old Trafford was by far his worst period as manager.
He left after a potential role as sporting director was pulled, since leading Austria to Euro 2024 qualification. Bayern meanwhile are keen to pursue a 'new direction' when Tuchel departs at the end of the season.
"In a good, open discussion, we came to the decision to end our working relationship by mutual agreement in the summer. Our goal is to pursue a new footballing direction with a new head coach for the 2024/25 season," chief executive Jan-Christian Dreesen said in February.
"Until then, every individual at the club is expressly called upon to achieve the maximum possible in the Champions League and Bundesliga. I also explicitly hold the team accountable in this regard.
"In the Champions League in particular, after losing 1-0 in the first leg at Lazio, we are convinced we will reach the quarter-finals at a packed Allianz Arena with our fans behind us."
Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.