Bayern confirm Campbell interest

Bayern Munich have emerged as the latest candidates to sign Tottenham's wantaway skipper Sol Campbell.  

The European Cup winners have joined Inter Milan, Barcelona and Arsenal in pursuit of the in-demand England defender.

Campbell's contract with Spurs finally ran out on Sunday after he failed to agree new terms at White Hart Lane.

"It is true that we have made an offer for Campbell," revealed Bayern president Franz Beckenbauer in the German newspaper.

"He is a much sought-after man, which is not surprising because he is world class."

Bayern first registered their interest in Campbell at the beginning of the year.

The 26-year-old, who is available on a Bosman free transfer, is seen as an ideal replacement for Patrik Andersson, who is on his way to Barca in a £5million switch.

However Bayern must first beat off competition from some of Europe's wealthiest clubs by breaking their wage structure, which is relatively low by European standards.

Campbell demanded £2million to stay at Spurs for a further three years, a request which was rejected out of hand by the new White Hart Lane hierarchy.

However, with leading clubs on the continent chasing his services, he could yet land himself a bumper deal in excess of £200,000 a week.

Barcelona were the original favourites to land his signature, although the Catalan giants are thought to be growing increasingly impatient at Campbell's reluctance to commit himself to the Nou Camp.

Arsenal are still holding out for a shock cross-North London move, while Inter president Massimo Moratti has claimed the San Siro side were winning the race.