Bayern Munich coach Pep Guardiola has praised Gonzalo Castro amid growing speculation the versatile Bayer Leverkusen midfielder could join the Bavarians in the summer.
Castro, 27, has been at Leverkusen for his entire career, and, having already featured 282 times, he is approaching his 300th Bundesliga appearance for the club some 10 years after debuting in a 3-0 win at Hannover in January 2005.
However, in recent weeks there has been speculation linking the former Germany international with a move away from the club.
Castro is under contract until 2016, with his terms reportedly including a €10-12 million release clause.
Last month, Castro told kicker that this summer represents his last chance to make a switch.
He said: "I probably would not have to leave the club after that. As you get older you have fewer alternatives."
Castro has played in various positions for Leverkusen, and, while he prefers to play in holding midfield, he can also play at right-back.
following after Javi Martinez was sidelined, and speculation has resurfaced ahead of the clubs' meeting in the DFB Pokal.
"My head is not ready to think about the next season and what players will be there. We have not talked about it yet," on Tuesday. "But he [Castro] is certainly a good player. He has played on many positions."
But Leverkusen hope to keep hold of Castro, with sporting director Rudi Voller telling : "We will sit down soon."
He did, however, add that the club are aware "we will lose good players every now and then. That's how it works."
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