Bayern Munich chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge insists Franck Ribery could still stay with the club.

The France international has been persistently linked with Europe's other top clubs, including Real Madrid, Barcelona, Manchester United and Chelsea.

Rummenigge told Munich daily newspapers AZ and TZ: "Our goal is to prolong Franck's contract; I will do as much as I can to keep him in Bayern."

He is not expected to play until Bayern's Bundesliga match at Bremen on 23rd January as - while the knee injury has now healed - in-growing toe nails on both feet have restricted Ribery's training so far this year.

Despite his absence, Rummenigge has hailed the player's importance to the club, who face a UEFA Champions League last 16 clash against Fiorentina next month.

The chairman added: "Louis van Gaal (Bayern's coach) has said he is convinced of Ribery's talent and his importance for Bayern.

"Franck is without question the best player in the Bundesliga."