Bayern Munich accept their hopes of tempting Jurgen Klopp away from Liverpool are now dead.
The Daily Star says the German coach, 50, has been on the radar of the Bundesliga leaders for well over a year.
Only a few weeks ago Bayern felt they were getting closer to realising that aim amid growing doubts about Liverpool's progress under Klopp.
But that was before the Reds flexed their financial muscle last week to secure Virgil van Dijk in a world record deal for a defender.
Those close to Bayern now accept that the club will have to search elsewhere to find a new top coach.
A source said: “The Van Dijk transfer says Klopp is unlikely to be available – or looking to leave Liverpool – any time soon."