"We have had good talks in recent weeks about a possible contract extension, but he has informed us that he will not be extending his contract and will be leaving us," said Freund.
Even a new two-year contract was "an option", "but he has another option where he can sign for longer. We have to accept that," said Freund.
After 45 competitive games so far (two goals), there are "only positive things to say" about Dier, emphasised the sporting director.
"It was a great time with Eric, he did well and is a great guy. I hope he crowns his time here with the championship." That could already be the case on Saturday at RB Leipzig.
Bayern silent on Tah interest
Even without the Englishman and despite long-term absences such as those of Alphonso Davies (cruciate ligament rupture) and Hiroki Ito (metatarsal fracture), Freund believes Bayern's defence is "very well positioned in terms of quality and quantity". However, the injury situation is being closely monitored.
When asked about a possible flare-up of interest in Bayer Leverkusen's Jonathan Tah, who was on the verge of a transfer to Munich last summer and is set to leave his current club, Freund said: "That's not an issue at the moment."
First of all, the record champions want to "bag the trophy, then we will press ahead with the planning."