Bayern in Ballack talks

Bayern Munich are continuing negotiations with midfielder Michael Ballack.

Ballack is out of contract next summer and is being courted by Manchester United and Internazionale.

The Germany international has expressed a wish to play abroad and that has sparked fears Bayern could lose the free-scoring midfielder for nothing.

Inter are believed to be keen to sign Ballack in 12 months' time, while United have been linked with an immediate ‚é¼18 million (£12 million) bid.

Reports have suggested that United will seek to hold talks with Ballack in the coming weeks when the two clubs are both in Japan on pre-season tours.

But Bayern are determined to fend off interest in the 28-year-old and are still locked in talks over Ballack's future.

"We are in conversation," affirmed Bayern general manager Uli Hoeness.

"After that we will see again."

Bayern coach Felix Magath is hoping not to be dragged into the saga, with Hoeness admitting the German champions will not be held to ransom over Ballack's demands if he wants a new contract.

Hoeness added: "If an annual salary of over ‚é¼10 million is being speculated upon then I no longer understand the world.

"Surely no-one believes Ballack earns more than ‚é¼4 million or thereabouts? And we're supposed to be considering more than doubling that?"

With Bayern anxious to keep hold of Ballack, they may even block his exit now and take the risk of the former Bayer Leverkusen ace leaving on a free transfer next summer.