Bayern Munich president Herbert Hainer slams Barcelona for 'flirting' with Joshua Kimmich

The 28-year-old midfielder has been linked with Barcelona since before the 2022/23 season, with rumours intensifying ahead of this summer transfer window.

Barcelona striker Robert Lewandowski fuelled these rumours when responding to a post-match question regarding the German.

"Everyone knows the qualities of Jo Kimmich," said Lewandowski following their 1-0 win over Kimmich's Germany in an international friendly.

"A player like that is a wish for every coach, it's no secret. Barcelona are always looking for the best options. But I don't want to say any more now, because I want to go on vacation in peace!" he ended.

These comments came on the back of Kimmich recently shutting down the speculation surrounding his career after responding to a reporter following the 3-3 draw vs Ukraine.

"It was difficult not to come across it [the rumours]. Generally, I™m not too invested in the rumours," said Kimmich.

"I still have, as everyone knows, two years left on my contract and we have big plans [for those two years] at Bayern."

Kimmich, who can also play as a wing-back, made 33 appearances in a Bundesliga season that saw them pip Borussia Dortmund to the title on an intriguing final match day.

Bavarian president Herbert Hainer has now come out fuming following other reports which state that Xavi is looking to sign Kimmich as a replacement for the Inter Miami bound star, in what Hainer sees as unprofessional advances for one of their star players.

"I don't understand why they [Barca] openly and offensively flirt with our player. Joshua Kimmich is an absolute cornerstone for us. He's firmly in our plans for the future, for sure." he told Sky Sport.

"If there is an open door, there will be negotiations with Bayern. It is clear that we need a player of a very high level in this position, otherwise, it will be very difficult to keep up next year."