Bayern Munich striker Mario Mandzukic can extend his contract at the German club, despite the imminent arrival of Robert Lewandowski in the summer, according to Bayern CEO, Karl-Heinz Rummenigge.

The Croatian striker, who has been linked with a move to Arsenal, was involved last night in Bayern’s 2-0 victory over the Gunners at the Emirates.

The Gunners were in search of a striker in the January transfer window and were linked with the 27-year-old, who has scored 12 league goals this season thus far.

“I have confidence he will stay,” the Bayern CEO told Munchner Murkur.

“Mandzukic has a contract until 2016, but I have told him he could extend it here.”

The Gunners currently have Bendtner and Sanogo as back-up options for first choice striker Olivier Giroud. Although, Wenger has kept high hopes on Sanogo, who started yesterday, but surely the Frenchman needs to invest on a top striker next summer.

It is also reported that London club Chelsea are also showing keen interest in the striker. The Blues, like Arsenal, need a top central forward in the summer, and could be looking to exploit the situation of Mandzukic, when Lewandowski arrives.

It doesn’t need any rocket science to understand that Lewandowski will be given the preference ahead of the Croatian and it remains to be seen whether he opts to leave the club or not.