New Schalke coach Rangnick wants Neuer to stay
By Associated Press
Mar 21, 2011 11:51 AM CDT
Schalke's goalkeeper Manuel Neuer and Leverkusen's Sidney Sam, from left, challenge for the ball during the German first division Bundesliga soccer match between Bayer Leverkusen and FC Schalke 04 in Leverkusen, Germany, Sunday, March 20, 2011. (AP Photo/Martin Meissner)   (Associated Press)

Newly appointed Schalke coach Ralf Rangnick says he wants to tie Germany goalkeeper Manuel Neuer to a long-term contract with the Bundesliga club when his current deal expires in 2012.

Rangnick says Neuer is one of the mainstays of the team and the club's priority is to extend the goalkeeper's contract beyond the end of next season. Bayern Munich has expressed interest in Neuer.

Rangnick was presented Monday as the successor to Felix Magath, who was fired last week.

Schalke plays title-holder Inter Milan in the Champions League quarterfinals and is also in the German Cup final.

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