Bundesliga He says the transfer market makes it difficult to compete

Bayern Munich's Karl-Heinz Rummenigge believes that Real Madrid are a level above the rest of the competition.

Real have won three of the last four Champions Leagues and last season became the first team to defend the trophy. They will be favourites again in this year's competition.

"I would say that Real Madrid are the brightest star in the sky," Rummenigge said to Sport Bild.

"There is a consensus that Real are above all the rest.

"Barcelona, Bayern and Manchester United are some way behind."

Rummenigge also acknowledged that while the transfer market remained in its current state, it would not be easy for the Bavarians to return to the top of the European game.

"There are ten teams in Europe that are pursuing the same goal," he said.

"But in this irrational world that football has become it will not be easy."