My thoughts exactly. Is he hopefully projecting? "I don't want a pardon for betraying you and my oath. So don't feel sorry for me and give me a pardon for stabbing you in the back, Mr. President."
Done.
He was not offered nor was Trump even contemplating a pardon. He knew that as soon as he began putting out feelers to the USA about a deal.
BTW, a pardon only removes the criminal conviction....the person is still liable for all civil matters i.e. taxes and penalties. Marc Rich is a good example.