Lewandowski 'prefers Real Madrid switch and will ask to leave Bayern'

Robert Lewandowski prefers a transfer switch to Real Madrid and will ask to leave Bayern Munich to force through a move, according to reports in Spain.

The veteran is widely regarded as one of the best strikers on the planet, with 307 goals in just 339 appearances in all competitions for Bayern since he joined on a free from Borussia Dortmund in July 2014.

And, with his pick of clubs in world football, AS claims Lewandowski has decided his ideal destination is the Bernabeu.

The Polish star is under contract with the Bavarian side until 2023, meaning clubs outside Germany can negotiate terms for a free transfer from January that year.

Therefore, Lewandowski may push for a move next summer, to allow Bayern the chance to maximise their income when they sell him.

And he is reportedly set to formally request a transfer away for the chance of a reunion with Los Blancos manager Carlo Ancelotti, despite a long and fruitful partnership with Julian Nagelsmann's side, and Bayern's strong desire to keep him.

Lewandowski has won 18 trophies in a glittering spell at the club, including seven successive Bundesliga titles, four German Cups, five German Super Cups, and a Champions League, UEFA Super Cup and Club World Cup gong.

But the veteran, 33, has admitted he is targeting four more years at the top level and could want to test himself in another country and competition.

Sportsmail reported on Friday that Sport Bild claimed Lewandowski's agent Pini Zahavi believes Manchester City are potential suitors, but AS reports indicate Madrid may be a more likely destination.

Meanwhile, Lewandowski has been singled out as one of five players all in with a good shot of winning this year's prestigious Ballon d'Or award.

French publication L'Equipe selected Jorginho, Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema, Lewandowski and Messi as the most likely potential winners.

This season, Lewandowski has a stunning total of 13 goals in 10 games, and has also recorded an assist.