‘No guarantee I’ll play’ Julian Brandt to snub Bayern Munich and Liverpool to stay at Bayer Leverkusen
Leverkusen star to snub Liverpool and Bayern Munich for guaranteed first-team football next season
Bayer Leverkusen winger Julian Brandt is set to turn down any approaches from Liverpool and Bayern Munich this summer in order to guarantee first-team football.
The 21-year-old has been heavily linked to the two clubs but his desire to play every week means his future for now will remain at Leverkusen.
Despite a disappointing season which sees Leverkusen struggling in 12th place, Brandt has been a bright spark scoring three goals and registering six assists.
Only 21 years old, Brandt has already played 96 times in the Bundesliga as well featuring 21 times in the Champions League, and his eye catching performances have made him one of Europe's hottest properties.
Wingers are high on Bayern manager Carlo Ancelotti's list of summer targets with club legends Arjen Robben and Franck Ribery now 33 and 34 years of age respectively.
Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has been an admirer of Brandt's for some time.
As Borussia Dortmund boss Klopp tried to sign the winger, who instead chose Leverkusen.
Having broken into Joachim Low's Germany squad this season, Brandt is cautious about making the right decision for his long-term career.
He told Focus: "If you make a move, there's no guarantee that you play.
"I think it is very important for me to play many matches next season and that's what I can do in Leverkusen."
The persistent rumours have lead to many Leverkusen fans protesting against the winger, who has been left frustrated over the constant transfer talk.
He added: "That has nothing to with freedom of speech.
"You can't keep people from doing it, probably. There are many idiots in this world."