The German giants turned to Benitez after it became clear that, despite topping the Bundesliga, Ottmar Hitzfeld was unlikely to be offered a new contract, following growing tension behind the scenes, says the Daily Mail.

Relations between Hitzfeld and chairman Karl- Heinz Rummenigge have deteriorated so much that the veteran boss has told friends he expects to take over as Switzerland manager next summer, when his Bayern contract ends.

Benitez is Bayern's first choice to take over, and it is believed he has been contacted by intermediaries, but it already seems certain he will quickly rebuff the overtures.