Bayern Munich’s sporting director Max Eberl has firmly rejected speculation linking the German champions with a January move for Chelsea forward Christopher Nkunku, despite reports of the French international’s growing frustration at Stamford Bridge. The Athletic has revealed that Chelsea would consider parting with Nkunku for approximately £65 million, marking a significant increase from their initial investment of £50 million just last summer.
Speaking to Spox, Eberl delivered a clear message regarding Bayern’s transfer plans: “We have a squad that is sufficiently equipped in terms of quantity and quality. We have no interest in doing anything in January.” This definitive statement comes amid growing speculation about Nkunku’s future in London, where he has struggled to secure regular playing time under manager Enzo Maresca.
The situation at Chelsea has become increasingly complex for Nkunku, who has started just three Premier League matches since his arrival from RB Leipzig. Despite limited opportunities in the league, the French forward has demonstrated his scoring prowess, matching Cole Palmer as Chelsea’s joint-top scorer with 13 goals across all competitions. However, the majority of these goals have come in cup competitions, highlighting his peripheral role in Premier League fixtures.
Recent reports had suggested potential discussions between Chelsea and Bayern Munich regarding a package deal involving Nkunku and Bayern’s promising 19-year-old forward, Mathys Tel. However, Eberl’s additional comments about Tel’s future at the club have effectively shut down such speculation: “Mathys Tel? We’re extremely happy with our squad,” the director stated firmly.
Chelsea’s reported willingness to sell Nkunku represents a surprising shift in strategy, considering the significant investment made in acquiring the player from RB Leipzig just months ago. The proposed £65 million price tag suggests the London club is keen to secure a substantial profit on their initial investment, despite Nkunku’s limited impact in the Premier League thus far.
The situation highlights the challenges faced by both clubs and player. For Chelsea, the difficulty lies in balancing their squad’s needs with the substantial investment made in Nkunku. The forward’s impressive goal-scoring record in cup competitions suggests untapped potential that could yet prove valuable to the club’s long-term plans.
Bayern Munich’s stance, meanwhile, reflects a confidence in their current squad composition and a reluctance to disturb team dynamics during the crucial mid-season period. The German champions have traditionally been selective in their winter transfer activity, preferring to make major squad adjustments during the summer window.
For Nkunku, the situation presents a challenging crossroads in his career. Having established himself as one of Europe’s most promising attackers during his time at RB Leipzig, his move to Chelsea was expected to mark the next step in his development. Instead, the transition to English football has proven more complicated than anticipated.
As Chelsea prepare to host Wolverhampton Wanderers in their next Premier League fixture, questions about Nkunku’s role and future at the club continue to linger. The forward’s likely relegation to the bench for this crucial match further underscores the uncertainty surrounding his position within the team’s hierarchy.
While Bayern Munich’s clear stance appears to close one potential exit route for Nkunku, the January transfer window remains active, and other opportunities may yet emerge. However, Chelsea’s substantial asking price could prove a significant barrier to any potential move, potentially forcing all parties to reassess their positions as the season progresses.
