Bayern Munich defender Benjamin Pavard has said that he is open to the idea of a fresh challenge at this stage of his career.
The 26-year-old moved to Allianz Arena from Stuttgart in July 2019, and he has made 139 appearances for the Munich giants, contributing nine goals and 11 assists in the process.
Pavard remains a key player for Munich, featuring on 20 occasions in all competitions this term, but his current deal is due to expire in June 2024, and he was linked with a move away over the summer.
Both Manchester United and Chelsea are said to be interested in the defender, who has been named in the France squad for the 2022 World Cup.
Pavard has revealed that he has not yet held talks with Bayern over a potential new contract, and he is open to "discovering a new project" at this stage of his career.
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"No, there were no specific discussions. For now, I'm focused on the World Cup, on being the best I can be at a very big club, one of the best in the world," Pavard told L'Equipe.
"I have immense respect for Bayern, I learned there the requirement of a very high level and it is an honour to wear this shirt.
"Afterwards, I have been in Germany for seven years, I have won everything with the club. I'm not against discovering a new project. Maybe now is the time. Why not discover a new country, a new culture? But the sports project must be interesting.
"[I want to] take up new challenges, discover another football, a new culture... but I put the sporting issue above all else.
"I may have been around here, but I'm at a really big club so I'm not going to leave for nothing. I'm not doing a fictional scenario, we'll see what the options are and we'll discuss with Bayern."
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Man United are believed to be planning to move for a new right-back during the January transfer window to provide competition for Diogo Dalot.
Pavard has largely played as a right-sided defender throughout his career, but he is also capable of operating as a central defender and featuring on the left.
Atletico Madrid, Juventus and Paris Saint-Germain are also said to be keeping a close eye on the developments surrounding Pavard, with Bayern believed to be open to a sale due to his contract situation.
Pavard has won three Bundesliga titles, the German Cup, the Champions League, the UEFA Super Cup and the Club World Cup during a successful period at Allianz Arena.
Matt Law
