Former Bayern Munich midfielder Mario Basler claims Carlo Ancelotti may have signed a contract with a Chinese club — and could leave in January.
The reigning Bundesliga champions suffered their first defeat of the season as they went down 2-0 at Hoffenheim.
Despite relinquishing top spot for the first time since Ancelotti arrived, and the Italian is under a little pressure following a relatively “underwhelming” first season.
And Basler reckons the former Chelsea boss could soon be off.
He told German talk show Sport1: “I have been told that Ancelotti has signed with a Chinese club.
“From what I understand, he could leave as soon as January because that is when the season in China starts.”
The former Germany international was quick to point out that they he is not speaking fact — but insists the news came from someone reliable.
Basler added: “I cannot confirm it 100 per cent but my source is very trustworthy.
“Let’s put it this way: I can’t say anything negative about my source, who I completely trust.
“I’m not saying it’s definitely true, but this is what I’ve been told.”
Basler is known in England mainly for scoring Bayern’s opener in the 1999 Champions League final defeat to Manchester United.
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