KEY POINTS

  • Neuer hopes Alcantara's days at Allianz Arena are not numbered
  • Liverpool and PSG have been linked to Alcantara
  • Thiago is considered a vital part of Der FCB midfield

Thiago Alcantara's time in Bayern Munich could be winding down, with the 29-year-old linked to a possible move to Liverpool F.C. But team captain Manuel Neuer remains unruffled at the possibility, still hoping that the Spaniard can be convinced to prolong his stay at Allianz Arena.

Thiago has been a vital player in the seven years he has played for Bayern, although his final year with the club has raised different scenarios. If the club is not careful, it may end up losing Thiago via free transfer in 2021, Goal reported.

Ahead of their match against Chelsea in the Champions League last-16, Neuer emphasized Thiago's importance to Der FCB, calling him the "engine" of their midfield.

"I hope that it won't be one of the last matches of Thiago," Neuer said when he spoke to the press in an event live-streamed via the club's official YouTube and Facebook accounts Friday.

"He had to undergo surgery at the end of the season but now he's back and 100%," he continued. "He's a very valuable player for us, especially in ball possession. He's very important for us. He's our engine in midfield actually."

For now, Bayern is looking to secure a quarter-final spot against the Blues. Der FCB leads Chelsea, 3-0, from the first leg and enters the match as favorites since the club has home advantage. The Bayern goalkeeper is pretty confident of their chances and does not to be appear bothered by Thiago's predicament.

"We're a great team, we all get on well. We are hungry and ambitious. It's important that we have this goal ahead of us. That's how it was with the Bundesliga," Neuer said.

Thiago is looking for a new home, previous reports said. No formal offers for his services have been made.

Jurgen Klopp has aired his admiration for the central midfielder, calling him a great player. Beyond that, he has been mum on anything else.

"Thiago Alcantara is a great player, but also a Bayern Munich player. That's all there is to say. There's nothing to say!" Klopp said.

Aside from Liverpool, there are other teams interested in his services, with the latest club to join the race being Paris Saint-Germain. PSG is preparing to pitch to Bayern for the services of the 29-year-old player.

Thiago Alcantara
Thiago Alcantara Reuters