Bayern Munich coach Hansi Flick concedes he's preparing to see Thiago Alcantara sold this summer.

Alcantara has been linked with a £30million switch to Liverpool to link-up with big admirer Jurgen Klopp.

The midfielder was in contract talks with Bayern before withdrawing and declaring his desire for a new challenge.

“I can understand when a player is concerned," Flick told Sport1. “Thiago played in Spain for FC Barcelona and in the Bundesliga for FC Bayern Munich.

“If he wants to try again in the Premier League now, I totally understand. But it would be a shame because Thiago gives our game that certain something.

“That's why I would like to have him as a coach on the team for the next few years, but that's life. It would go on."

With attention turning to a replacement for Thiago if he departs, Flick declared: “I'll discuss the squad planning with Hasan Salihamidzic and his team. We are in close contact.

“Currently the focus is only on the Champions League. I therefore do not want to submit any water level reports."