New manager Steve McClaren has been told that the Bundesliga champions are under no financial pressure to sell the Bosnian international.
According to Wolfsburg sources, it is increasingly likely that Dzeko, who was the top scorer in the Bundesliga last season with 22 goals in a campaign that yielded 29 in all competitions, will remain at the club next season.
Potential suitors have been put off by the German club’s demands, which rocketed to £42m as soon as a £35m release clause in Dzeko’s contract expired at the end of May.
Wolfsburg, who are bankrolled by German car giants Volkswagen, do not have any financial imperative to sell their leading players. They showed further evidence of their transfer muscle on Friday by completing a £6m deal for Croatia striker Mario Mandzukic.
General manager Dieter Hoeness has told potential buyers that Wolfsburg are not interested in a player-exchange deal and want a cash payment for their prize asset, who is contracted to the club until 2013.
The 24-year-old goal-getter though made it clear over the last week he would be keen on taking the step up to one of Europe’s most prestigious clubs after three seasons at Wolfsburg.
“I feel I have to take a leap in quality and play for a big club,” said Dzeko, whose 26 goals in 32 games fired the club to the 2008-09 Bundesliga title.
“It is an important moment in my career and I also explained that to the leaders of Wolfsburg.”
Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini, Milan chief executive Adriano Galliani and Juventus director general Beppe Moratta have all confirmed they are trying to sign Dzeko but will not pay over the odds. (Source)