(REUTERS) - Bayern Munich will subsidise fans who buy tickets for their Champions League first knockout round first-leg tie away to Arsenal, where prices are higher than in Germany.

The European champions said that their fans would pay only 45 euros (S$78) to watch the round-of-16 match at the Emirates Stadium in London instead of the roughly 75 euros charged by the English Premier League club.

Bayern said the decision, which would cost the club 90,000 euros, was a sign of gratitude to its fans and demonstrated the importance to the team of having a vocal backing at all games.

"Bayern has thrilled the world of European football not only by the outstanding performance and consistency of its team, but also by the fantastic and vocal support of its fans," the club said in a statement.

"It's particularly noteworthy that a large number of Bayern fans support the team not only at the high points but also at every away game.

"It should be clear to everyone that this loyalty involves a great deal of time and expenses... Bayern have therefore decided to subsidise the tickets for the away game at Arsenal.

"This is intended to represent a small thank you for the great support of the followers in the past calendar year 2013."

Bayern charge home fans between 15 euros for a standing place and 70 euros for the most expensive seats at home matches in the Bundesliga.

Ticket prices for the home tie against Arsenal range from 35 to 100 euros. Tickets for away fans are at the lower end of the price range.