Bayern won't chase Martinez

Javi Martinez: The Spain international has a 40m euro release clause in his contract

Bayern Munich are not hiding their interest in Athletic Bilbao's Javi Martinez or Bayer Leverkusen's Lars Bender but they do not want to push the deals at the risk of damaging their relations with the two clubs.

Last season's defeated UEFA Champions League finalists and Bundesliga runners-up have been expected to attempt to make statements of intent in the improvements to their squad this summer.

Bayern have been linked with Manchester City's Dutch defensive midfielder, Nigel de Jong, but they have also been reported as considering activating the €40million (£31.5m) release clause in classy Spain international Martinez's Bilbao contract.

Leverkusen's Germany international, Bender, is another target, however, Bayern claim they do not want to cause aggravation and they also say they have total faith in the existing players at the Allianz Arena.

Bayern director Matthias Sammer told BILD: "We have not planned to pull up alternatives to these two (Martinez and Bender).