Former Bayern Munich chief Uli Hoeness has accused Manchester United and Liverpool of trying to “blackmail” the German giants over their summer transfer pursuit of Thiago Alcantara.
The Premier League pair have been chasing the Bayern Munich star all summer, with Liverpool believed to be winning the race to land the playmaker.
But Bayern are standing firm over their stance on the Spain international and will not sell Thiago unless potential suitors match their £27million valuation.
And Hoeness has slammed United and Liverpool, while also suggesting that Thiago already has an agreement in place to make a move to the Premier League.
“We offered him a great four-year contract but in the last minute he changed his mind and told us he wants a new challenge,” Hoeness told Sport1.
“He probably has an agreement with Liverpool or Manchester United, or with both. ‘Both clubs have not come to us with an offer.
“They are bluffing and want to blackmail us by waiting until the last week and then make a cheap offer.
“Bayern must decide whether they want to play this game or stand their ground and keep Thiago.”
Hoeness’ comments come after Jamie Carragher said Liverpool’s transfer pursuit of Thiago is “disrespectful” to Jurgen Klopp’s current midfield stars.
Speaking as Liverpool got their title defence off to a winning start over Leeds on Saturday, the Anfield legend says the Thiago pursuit pays a disservice to the members of the club’s current midfield.
“I think the huge clamour for Thiago is a little bit disrespectful to Liverpool’s current midfield three,” Carragher told Sky Sports.
“Yes he would add something different, no doubt. But if he doesn’t come in, it’s not the end of the world, this is still a fantastic midfield for Liverpool.”
