Schweinsteiger close to deciding Bayern future

Bayern Munich’s Bastian Schweinsteiger has said he is close to making a decsion about his future, but has yet to commit to the German champions and admits he is eager for Champions League success.

The 26-year-old is out of contract with Munich in June 2012, but if he fails to sign an extension in the winter break, Bayern may consider selling him at the end of the season, rather than risk losing him on a free transfer.

The Germany vice-captain, who was superb in South Africa when the national side finished third at the World Cup, said several clubs have expressed an interest with both Manchester United and Real Madrid linked to the German.

“There are three to four clubs who could be potential employers in 2012,” Schweinsteiger told SID, a subsidiary of AFP.

But the 83-times capped Schweinsteiger says he is close to making his mind up.

“Yes, I am leaning towards a decision,” Schweinsteiger said in an interview with German television channel Sport1.

“Bayern’s footballing skills have developed greatly in the last year, which was nice to see.”

Schweinsteiger also praised Dutch coach Louis van Gaal who led Bayern to the Champions League final, when they lost to Inter Milan, and won the domestic league and cup double.

“Last season, we have seen how far he can bring on a team,” said Schweinsteiger.

“I hope he stays at Bayern for a long time. He works well with the club.”

But Schweinsteiger has said he will only decide his future once the winter break begins just before Christmas and is prepared to quit Munich to win more European silverware.

“My goal is to win the Champions League and I’ve always said that I can do that at other clubs,” he said.

Bayern Munich have already extended the contract of Germany defender Philipp Lahm until 2016 and the German giants are hoping to offer Schweinsteiger a similar deal.