Bayern in talks with Gazprom

Bayern Munich president Uli Hoeness has confirmed that the Bundesliga leaders are in talks over a sponsorship deal with Gazprom.

It was first reported in December that the Russian energy company was keen on linking up with Bayern in order to increase its profile in German markets.

Hoeness has now revealed that the two parties are talking but insisted that Bayern are not trying to undermine league rivals Schalke, who have been sponsored by Gazprom since 2007.

“If we cooperate with Gazprom, it would be in conjunction with Schalke instead of replacing them,” he told Bild.

“I have also guaranteed this to my friend (Schalke chairman) Clemens Tonnies.”

Schalke signed a new deal with Gazprom in May 2010 that runs until 2017.