Bayern Munich are stepping up their interest in Athletic Bilbao's Fernando Llorente, according to reports.
Germans eye Spaniard
Bayern Munich are stepping up their interest in Athletic Bilbao's Fernando Llorente as they consider him as a replacement for the wantaway Luca Toni, according to a report.
The German giants' chief scout, Egon Coordes, paid a second visit to San Mames at the weekend to see the powerful striker in action and will have been impressed by what he saw.
In his visit on March 4, the Bayern representative only saw an under-strength Llorente perform amid a bout of gastroentiritis against Osasuna, but he was on top form against Racing.
An early goal and strong display has seen word go back to the Allianz Arena that should Toni be granted his wish and return to Italy, then his replacement has been found, Basque Country daily
El Correo states.
Bayern's club president, Franz Beckenbauer, has around €45 million to spend on bosltering the squad and having already allotted some of that, he now wants a new striker.
Lukas Podolski is also set to leave the club, while Miroslav Klose has a long-term injury and it remains to be seen in what form he will return to action in.
Athletic are currently trying to persuade Llorente to pen a new deal as his current contract runs out in 2011, but they would also be forced to sit down and listen to a major offer should it arrive.
If Bayern do make a move then they can expect competition from English and Italian sides, but the chance to play for one of Europe's major players and taste Champions League action could mean that the Bavarians land their man.
