Franz Beckenbauer has backed Uli Hoeness to resume his role as Bayern Munich president in November after the 64-year-old left prison.
Hoeness was released from prison in late February after serving half of his three-and-a-half-year sentence for tax evasion.
In March, Hoeness said he first needed to clear his head before making a decision about his future, but he is expected to announce this month whether he plans to stand in November's club elections.
There have been several signs in recent weeks that Hoeness could stand for election as both club president and head of the supervisory board, which were the two positions he held before his conviction.
Former Bayern player, coach and president Beckenbauer, who now acts as the club's honorary president, told Bild: "FC Bayern need Uli Hoeness, and Uli Hoeness needs FC Bayern.
"Even in such a well-run and successful club you should not do without Uli Hoeness' experience. He's always there with a lot of blood, sweat and tears. I would be delighted about his return."
Karl Hopfner has served as Bayern president since 2014 but club CEO Karl-Heinz Rummenigge said in May he would not stand for re-election if Hoeness decides to return.