Riccardo Saponara is a surprise target for Bayern Munich according to reports.

Italian publication Quotidiano Sportivo suggests that incoming Bayern boss Carlo Ancelotti is eyeing a new playmaker with the likes of Franck Ribery and Arjen Robben beginning to get on in years and the future of Mario Gotze uncertain.

24-year-old Empoli ace Saponara is being linked with a possible €20million move to the Allianz Arena following his impressive displays for the Azzurri since returning to the Stadio Carlo Castellani from AC Milan in January 2015.

This season, Saponara has scored five goals and provided seven assists in 21 Serie A appearances and is believed to be of interest to compatriot Ancelotti who will replace Pep Guardiola at the end of the season.