Much speculation has surrounded Toni Kroos, especially during the January transfer window with reported intense interest from a host of clubs including Manchester United. A player with unquestionable quality and having been at the club since the age of 16, why all of a sudden are there rumbles of a possible departure among the gossip columns of Europe?
The reports that the 24 year old could be heading to the exit door comes after he admitted that contract talks over an extension on a deal that runs out in the summer of 2015 had broken down. It is reported that Toni Kroos wants more money than he is currently earning, a demand that Bayern Munich have not initially agreed to.
Further talk of a rift between manager Guardiola and Kroos came after he was substituted during Munich's 2-1 win over Stuggart. Kroos reacted horribly to coming off, throwing his gloves on the floor and was clearly in distress. Guardiola fuelled rumours of an exit by saying: "Kroos remains an important player, but things can move fast in football. Here today, gone tomorrow."
Although a class player with vast technical ability and vision, he is a player Bayern Munich can afford to lose. In a squad that has so many talented midfielders, some who arguably merit a place in the starting line up ahead of Kroos, he is not deemed an integral part of the Bavarians' set up.
With Pep Guardiola transforming Lahm into a midifelder in his 4-5-1 formation, there is no shortage of central midfielders currently in the squad. However, Bayern Munich are unlikely to want to lose a player of Toni Kroos' calibre so will try to agree a deal that suits both parties in the near future despite the current break down in talks.
Does Kroos have a right to ask for more money in a side where he is considered a top player, but not integral? It will be interesting to see if Bayern Munich in the future bow down to his demands in fear of losing him, but do not expect this. Bayern Munich have a reputation in Germany of putting the club first and not giving into player demands. The current Champions' League holders will not hesitate to make an example of Kroos, sending a warning to staff and players that no one is bigger than than the club.
Kroos has stated he does not want to leave Bayern and rightly so. Arguably the best side in the world right now, it is a very exciting time for Bayern Munich as they are in the process of a domination of club football, an example being last season where they won every competition they were entered in. Club captain Phillip Lahm has even weighed in, warning Kroos it doesn't get much better than Bayern.
There will be no shortage of teams that will hope Kroos stays firm about his request and either lets his contract run down and become available on a Bosman or Bayern Munich seek a quick fix and put him up for sale, something sporting director Matthias Sammer has assured fans will not happen. Manchester United are reportedly favourites to go for Kroos, with Moyes already seen watching Kroos play. Juventus are also rumoured to be keen as are a host of top European clubs. Kroos will have no shortage of potential suitors if he is to leave the Allianz Arena.
So currently the contract situation has turned into a game of poker. Kroos wants more money, but also does not want to leave. Bayern are not willing to meet his current demands and do not want a player of his calibre leaving to join a European rival. The stakes are high and it is going to be very interesting to see who folds and gives in.
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