Bayern Munich fear Lewandowski could use ‘Webster Ruling’ to force exit

Simon Lloyd

Bayern are concerned Lewandowski may resort to legal measures to force a move away

Bayern Munich fear Robert Lewandowski could be willing to use the Webster Ruling in order to force his exit from the German champions this summer.

After eight years in Bavaria, Lewandowski has informed the club’s hierarchy of his wish to move on in time for next season, with the Poland captain said to be eyeing a move to Barcelona.

His current deal at Bayern runs until next summer, but Lewandowski has already made it known he has no intention of prolonging his stay with the Bundesliga champions.

Lewandowski could use ‘Webster Ruling’

Despite being contracted to play on for the club for another 12 months, Bild now reports Bayern are growing increasingly concerned that the striker could resort to legal measures in order to force his way out.

Article 17 of FIFA’s Regulations states any player who signed a contract after the age of 28 can buy themselves out of the contract three years after the deal was signed.

Lewandowski, now 33, falls into this category and his agent, Pini Zahavi, is said to be aware of the clause.

The ruling takes its name from Andy Webster, who set the precedent when he moved from Hearts to Wigan Athletic in 2006.

Should Lewandowski opt to activate the clause, he would owe Bayern compensation in the form of his wages for the final year of his contract – roughly around €24m.

This would represent a smaller amount than the fee Barcelona would reportedly have to fork out for him.

Barcelona strongly linked with Lewandowski despite financial woes

Though Barca is thought to be his most likely destination should he leave Germany, it’s unclear if the club’s financial troubles will scupper a potential deal.

A year on from the troubles which resulted in the departure of Lionel Messi, reports this week have claimed Barca’s continuing financial woes mean they are unable to register Andreas Christensen and Franck Kessie due to Financial Fair Play.

This has given rise to the belief the club may have to sell some of their more high-profile players before they are able to add new players to Xavi’s squad.