Bayern Munich great Lothar Matthaus says they can afford to lose Thiago Alcantara this summer.
The Spain international has turned down attempts from Bayern to open new contract talks amid reports he has instructed agents to sound out Liverpool to see if they're interested.
Thiago is said to be ready to leave Munich in search for a new challenge. He has been with Bayern for seven years, following Pep Guardiola from Barcelona back in 2013 to sign for the German giants in a €25m deal. He has won a stunning seven Bundesliga titles, three German Cups and a Club World Cup.
The 29 year-old midfielder is now about to enter the final year of his contract.
News of Thiago's stand has surprised many inside the German game, though Matthaus insists Bayern can afford to lose the midfielder should he indeed choose to depart.
Matthaus, a former Bayern captain and Germany World Cup winner, told Sky Deutschland via AS: "Thiago's depature is acceptable. Although I like to see him play, in the great matches I have not seen him as the player I would like to see.
"A player also has the right to say no to Bayern. I would be more concerned if Bayern lost Manuel Neuer, Robert Lewandowski or Joshua Kimmich.
"Thiago has done a lot for Bayern, but I think he is replaceable. The last few weeks it has been seen that with Joshua Kimmich and Leon Goretzka the midfield works well. In addition, Bayern may be thinking of another exit and see Kai Havertz in Thiago's position."
- updated June 29
