Bayern play down reports that Guardiola could replace Heynckes

Munich: Bayern Munich CEO Karl-Heinz Rummenigge was coy when questioned about reported interest in taking Pep Guardiola to Bavaria, but stated that Jupp Heynckes` position as coach was safe until the end of 2012.

Heynckes` future with the club had been placed in doubt after finishing second in three competitions last season, and the former Barcelona boss has been linked with an early return from his year-long sabbatical to take the reins at the Allianz Arena. But, speaking at Matthias Sammer`s first press conference as the new Bayern sporting director, Rummenigge revealed that the club would not be rushed over the future of the current coach. "We will think about it calmly," he told reporters. "You will get no quotes from us about this issue before Christmas. "Only then will we sit down. "Pep Guardiola? I have also read about this, but no one from Bayern has confirmed this." Sammer then commented on Bayern`s reported interest in Spain international Javi Martinez, who has been valued at €40 million by Athletic Bilbao. "Basically, the player is good, but he is expensive," he said. "One can always do some crazy signings, but nothing unreasonable. "I know him well. Our club officials who saw him think that he is very good. Let`s wait and see." Goal.com