Football: Bayern Munich silent on Pep talk

BERLIN (REUTERS) - German Bundesliga leaders Bayern Munich have declined to comment on speculation about a possible deal with former Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola.

"Unfortunately we will not be commenting on these rumours," a club official told Reuters when asked about reports that the successful Spanish football coach, who is on a year's sabbatical, was close to a deal with the Bavarians.

Current coach Jupp Heynckes, who took over in 2011 and steered Bayern to the Champions League final last season, has yet to win any titles but, judging by his team's superb performance this season, that could soon change.

Bayern are top of the Bundesliga with a nine-point lead after 17 matches with the best offence and defence in the league, having scored 44 goals while conceding seven.