Brazilian hitman Giovanni Elber has indicated that he will leave Bayern Munich when his contract expires in 2004.

The former Stuttgart striker has enjoyed a successful career in the German top-flight and intends to finish his career in Italy or Spain.

“In 2004, it will definitely be over with Bayern”, he told Bild. “I will have been in Germany for 10 years and that will be enough.”

Elber, 30, is still a favourite among the Bayern fans, although continued speculation regarding the future signings of a whole host of strikers, among them Miroslav Klose, suggests that his position as first choice centre forward would be under threat next season.

He is not even ruling out leaving the Olympic Stadium before the end of his current contract.

“I wouldn’t mind if Klose joins Bayern next summer and the club no longer needs me.”