Oliver Kahn believes Bayern should consider selling Franck Ribery as he could become "more of a problem than an asset".

Ribery has been linked with a summer switch to Real Madrid, Barcelona or Chelsea and Kahn is concerned such attention could derail his progress at the Allianz Arena.

"Ribery could be dangerous for the club," he told Munich-based Tz newspaper.

"A player who is permanently pondering a transfer to Madrid, Barcelona or wherever else always causes a disturbance.

"It then becomes a question as to how much such a player can still really help you, if his thoughts are permanently elsewhere.

"You have got to be careful with such things otherwise such a player is more of a problem than an asset."

Ribery joined Bayern two years ago from Marseille and, although he had already built up an excellent reputation in Ligue 1, it has been his exploits in the Bundesliga, UEFA Cup and Champions League for Bayern which have really turned him into a world class player.

According to Kahn, the 26-year-old should also bear that in mind.

"By signing him, FC Bayern gave him the chance to become one of Europe's best," he added.

"You have got to expect from such a player that he identifies himself clearly with the club and then gives everything for them."