Jupp Heynckes needs to see more from Leroy Sané

In an interview with Welt (as captured by SPORT1), legendary Bayern Munich manager Jupp Heynckes dished on a few hot topics that have been abuzz within the club’s fanbase. In particular, Heynckes gave his thoughts on Bayern Munich’s potential acquisition of Manchester winger and Germany international Leroy Sané.

Heynckes did not exactly give the 24-year-old a ringing endorsement, although he acknowledged that Bayern Munich’s long-rumored transfer target has exceptional ability.

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“He had good momentum before he injured himself so seriously,” Heynckes said. “In my opinion, he has not yet broken out as an absolute top player. That’s a player, I think, who is at the crossroads. Will he continue to work hard or will he continue to be just an extraordinary talent. He has to be ready to take the next big step, because there is no use in flashing the talent from time-to-time. I can honestly tell you that I don’t think the price [€100 million] is justified.”

Clearly, Heynckes does not think Bayern Munich should approach anywhere near a nine-figure fee for Sane, but the COVID-19 crisis might have pushed Sane back into a price range that even Heynckes would be comfortable with.

In discussing Sané, Heynckes also touched on another player who has been linked to the Bavarians in Bayer Leverkusen ace Kai Havertz. Heynckes would love to see Havertz make a move to Bayern Munich, but he also thinks the price has to be right because of the financial issues clubs will face moving forward.

“As the person in charge, I would rather keep my players instead of getting expensive stars. Kai Havertz definitely has to stay in the Bundesliga, but not for a astronomical price. That would not be responsible,” Heynckes said.

On the bright side, Heynckes is happy with Bayern Munich’s leadership transition to Oliver Kahn.

“He is a win for FC Bayern. Because everything he explified as a player, the will to win, this absolute professionalism, he is bringing all that back to Bayern. I’m convinced of that,” Heynckes said. “Oliver Kahn has always gone his own way, even after his career as a player with his studies and other activities. He has so much experience and has played at the highest level. I think he is the right man.”

Not shockingly, Heynckes is still extremely sharp, engaged, and has his finger on the pulse of Bayern Munich.