Rolfes plays down speculation over Schick's Leverkusen future
Simon Rolfes has reacted to speculation over Patrik Schick's future at Bayer Leverkusen.
Bayer Leverkusen sporting director Simon Rolfes has played down speculation over Patrik Schick's future at the club.
Having scored 18 Bundesliga goals in 17 games this season, the Czech forward has been linked with a move away from BayArena.
Rolfes, however, sees no reason to let Schick go anytime soon.
"Before there is too much speculation, I'd like to say that Patrik, like Florian Wirtz, has not release clause, that's why we have the reins in our hands," Rolfes told Bild about the 26-year-old, whose contract expires in 2025.
"He has a long-term contract with us and is not thinking of leaving the club at all. Patrik is a very important pillar," added Rolfes.
"I believe that with us, he doesn't just have the chance to become a top player, but also a leader in the team. In the end, that's another step in a striker's development toward the absolute top level. He can take that step very well with us."
Schick himself dismissed speculation over his future earlier this month, telling Bild:
"Of course it's nice to read when you're linked with the big clubs. But I'm really, really happy in Leverkusen and I want to go to the Champions League with Bayer 04. I love living in Germany.
"I'm not thinking about other clubs at all. Everyone knows my contract situation. And I would never cause problems for a club and push through a transfer."