Football
Stephan Uersfeld, Germany correspondent 10y

Nicklas Bendtner frustrates Frankfurt

#INSERT type:image caption:Nicklas Bendtner could yet join Franfurt, but talks are on ice. END#

Eintracht Frankfurt have put their pursuit of Nicklas Bendtner on hold after the former Arsenal striker opted to cover the World Cup final for Danish television rather than linking up with a new team.

Denmark international Bendtner, 26, is a free agent after his contract with Arsenal expired in June, ending his nine-year association with the London club.

Frankfurt offered him a deal last week, but are now considering other targets after being made to wait.

"We are not getting anywhere -- therefore we have to focus on other things," new Frankfurt coach Thomas Schaaf told kicker on Monday.

According to the paper, the Bundesliga club's initial contract offer did not match Bendtner's demands. Frankfurt refused to improve the terms, and were reportedly irritated when the player broke off negotiations to travel to Brazil for the final.

However, Schaaf insists he has not given up all hope of signing the player, adding: "To put it on hold does not mean that negotiations will not continue at some point."

Meanwhile, Die Adler are also exploring other options, with Modena attacker Khouma Babacar, 21, reportedly a strong target.

Bendtner took to Twitter on Monday to express his joy at being able to attend the tournament, for which Denmark did not qualify.

He wrote that it was "fantastic to be part of the World Cup in Brazil."

^ Back to Top ^