Whelan: This is why Wijnaldum may have been snubbed by Bayern as transfer ‘95% done’

Liverpool star Georginio Wijnaldum may have been snubbed by “massive” Bayern Munich because of his wage demands.

That is according to ex-Premier League forward Noel Whelan, speaking exclusively to Football Insider after German outlet Abendzeitung claimed that Bayern have rejected the chance to sign the 30-year-old.

The Dutchman’s agent’s wage demands are reportedly too high for the European and German champions.

Wijnaldum’s contract expires in the summer and he is free to speak with European clubs with a view to sealing a pre-contract switch.

Football Insider revealed on 13th March that a move to Barcelona is “95 per cent done” after talks, although nothing has been signed.

The latest Bayern Munich twist may be regarded as a surprise in some quarters.

“It could possibly be that he has been forced out of a move by his agent,” he told Football Insider correspondent Dylan Childs.

“That might be why Bayern Munich are a little bit wary of the wages. If you’re asking far too much you’re going to price yourself out of a move.

“It could be the agent’s fee they’re not willing to pay as well.

“He’s a fantastic player but at the moment money is tight for a lot of clubs. So the deal has got to be right for both parties.

“If it isn’t, the player needs to drop his demands and be happy with being at a fantastic, massive football club like Bayern Munich where you know you’re gonna win trophies.

“Or you stick to your guns and hope they meet your demands. But clubs have the power.

“Players have the power at the end of the season but you’ve got to be realistic as well.”

Wijnaldum signed for Liverpool from Newcastle in a £25million switch in 2016.

His 229 appearances since then have yielded 22 goals and 16 assists.

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