Bayern Munich president Herbert Hainer has publicly acknowledged interest in Manchester City striker Erling Haaland, hinting that the German club could revisit the idea of signing the Norwegian in the coming years — particularly as City's future remains clouded by financial misconduct charges.

Hainer's careful response

Speaking to BILD TV over the weekend, Hainer was asked directly whether Haaland could be brought to the Allianz Arena as a successor to Harry Kane. The 72-year-old former Adidas CEO chose his words carefully, first pointing to the strength of manager Vincent Kompany's current attacking options.

"With Michael Olise, Harry Kane, and Luis Diaz, we have an excellent attack," Hainer said. "We scored over 100 goals last season and are very well positioned offensively."

He then left the door firmly ajar: "If we were talking about a timeframe in a few years, we would reassess the situation."

City's uncertain backdrop

Hainer's comments arrive at a significant moment. Manchester City are awaiting the outcome of proceedings relating to more than 100 alleged breaches of the Premier League's financial regulations over a period of nearly a decade. The verdict threatens to reshape the club's squad and ambitions considerably.

Bayern have harboured a long-standing admiration for Haaland. According to FourFourTwo, Die Roten were among the leading suitors on both previous occasions the striker changed clubs.

When pressed on the Premier League charges facing City, Hainer declined to speculate on what punishment the six-time English champions might receive. "I don't know the details and have no insider knowledge," he said. "That's why I don't want to speculate about it. The fact is: if that's what happened, consequences must be drawn."

Kane's contract situation

Kane, who turns 34 next summer, is out of contract at the end of this season. FourFourTwo understands Bayern are actively working to extend the England captain's deal, which means any potential Haaland move remains a longer-term consideration rather than an immediate priority.

Haaland is valued at €220 million by Transfermarkt. Meanwhile, Manchester City return to Champions League action this week when they face Paris Saint-Germain.