Bayern Munich omitted out-of-favour midfielder Renato Sanches from their squad for Saturday’s Bundesliga clash at Werder Bremen at his own request after being linked to Liverpool and Chelsea.

Head coach Carlo Ancelotti has given his blessing for the 20-year-old Portugal international to seek a transfer before Thursday’s deadline after failing to make the grade at Bayern.

“Sanches is not here. He asked the coach as he has a few offers and the coach allowed it,” Bayern’s director of sport Hasan Salihamidzic told Sky before kick-off at Werder. “But I can’t confirm any deal.”

The German champions beat Manchester United to the signature of Sanches for 35 million euros ($41.75m) at the start of last season, but he has struggled to cement a place in Bayern’s starting team.

He was also missing from Bayern’s 3-1 win at home to Bayer Leverkusen when the new Bundesliga campaign kicked off last weekend.

“If he stays, I’m satisfied. If he goes, it’s okay – no problem,” Ancelotti said Friday.

Provided by AFP Sport