Bayern eye Ismael swoop

Bayern Munich are ready to make a move for Werder Bremen defender Valerien Ismael.

The former Crystal Palace stopper has been imperious for Werder since moving to The Weser Stadion in 2003 from Strasbourg.

Ismael still has over two years left on his contract at Werder, but Bayern are now gearing up a bid.

The German giants could lose up to three central defenders in the summer with Robert Kovac, Thomas Linke and Sammy Kuffour all set to depart.

Ismael himself has admitted it would be a huge attraction to play for Bayern.

"Bayern is one of the best European teams, along with Juventus and Real Madrid," he said.

"For any player, the chance to play at Bayern is an attractive prospect."