Thomas Tuchel to abandon Harry Kane & Co? Under-fire Bayern Munich boss expresses desire to manage in Spain & work with 'engaging players' after being touted to replace Xavi at Barcelona

The timing of that admission will offer hope to Barcelona, who have seen current boss Xavi announce that he will be leaving at the end of the season. The Catalan giants are already being linked with an approach for Tuchel.

The 50-year-old German is tied to a contract at Bayern through to 2025. He has previously worked in his homeland at Mainz and Borssia Dortmund, while also taking in a spell at Ligue 1 heavyweights Paris Saint-Germain and leading Chelsea to Champions League glory.

Tuchel has said during a visit to the Bayern fan club ‘Red Stars’ in Heidenheim: “Moving abroad would appeal to me again. Spain has an extraordinary league. From my perspective, and based on my experience working with Spaniards, they are characterised by a tremendous amount of self-confidence. When you speak with Spanish players, I quickly get the sense that you are engaging with the person.”

Bayern remain in contention for Bundesliga and Champions League glory this season. England international Kane has plundered 27 goals for them through 26 appearances – as he seeks to break a personal trophy duck – and will be as interested as anybody to see what Tuchel has planned for the short and long-term future.