Bayern Munich are reportedly worried that Robert Lewandowski could leave them for a cut price deal, thanks to the rarely used 'Webster Rule.'
Lewandowski has been linked with a move away from Bayern for the last few months, despite having one year left on his current contract and the team having little desire to let him go.
Advert
Earlier this week, whilst on international duty, the Poland striker confirmed that he wanted his time at the Bundesliga champions to be over.
Barcelona are expected to be his destination, if Bayern agree to let him leave the Allianz Arena, with the German club reportedly wanting around €32 million for the striker.
However, according to Bild, the 33-year-old could actually leave for much less, due to a loophole in article 17 of FIFA's Regulations, which allows players over 28 to buy themselves out of their contract.
The rule gives those over that age the chance to leave, two years after they've signed their contract, as long as the club is compensated, which would be the estimated €24 million left on his deal.
Advert
The rule is known as the 'Webster Rule' thanks to former Scotland centre back Andy Webster's move from Hearts to Wigan Athletic in 2006.
Webster used the rule to his advantage to buy himself of his deal and move to a foreign country, by giving his team notice and paying the remainder of his deal.
It isn't something that many players have actually used in the 16 years since but it is certainly something that Lewandowski could implement.
Advert
Doing so would likely see Barcelona paying him the fee in a signing on bonus with the club, perhaps with more on top, but would still see them save money compared to a traditional sale.
Speaking to Bild about his clients desire to leave the German champions, agent Pini Zahavi said, "For Robert Lewandowski, FC Bayern is history. Robert wants to leave FC Bayern after eight years in which he gave the club everything.
"Now, at almost 34, he has the opportunity to fulfill a lifetime dream and join the club he always dreamed of.
Advert
"Why is FC Bayern denying him this opportunity? For Robert, the matter is very clear: he wants to leave FC Bayern this summer. Nobody cares about money here, neither Robert nor me."
Topics: Bayern Munich, Transfers, Robert Lewandowski, Bundesliga, La Liga, Barcelona
Ryan Sidle