Bayern Munich are reportedly eyeing a potential move for Chelsea striker Christopher Nkunku. Still struggling to secure a regular starting spot under Enzo Maresca, the 27-year-old has returned to the Bavarians’ radar.
According to The Standard, Nkunku has also attracted interest from other European clubs. Chelsea are determined to sell, as the French forward is not part of the Blues’ plans for the 2025-26 season.
Nkunku’s desire for more playing time is clear, with the forward hoping to boost his chances of making France’s squad for the 2026 World Cup. His frustration comes after failing to establish himself as a key player at Stamford Bridge, following his €60 million (£50.5m) transfer from RB Leipzig in 2023.
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Potential move supported by Bayern’s squad reshuffle
Bayern are keen to strengthen their attack despite already spending over €75 million (£63m) to sign Luis Diaz from Liverpool. The German side could look to proceed with negotiations after completing the sale of Kingsley Coman to Al Nassr for around €34 million (£28.5m).
This sale could help fund a move for Nkunku. Chelsea had reportedly been demanding over €60 million (£50.5m) for the striker, more than they paid for him, with the club preferring a fixed fee rather than any variables included.
In 2024-25, Nkunku made 52 appearances, scoring 16 goals across all competitions. However, the arrival of Jamie Gittens, Liam Delap, João Pedro and Estevão Willian limited his opportunities, and he scored just twice in the Premier League. In the Club World Cup, he scored once in six appearances.
Frustration and limited game time at Stamford Bridge
Nkunku’s dissatisfaction with his role became evident towards the end of 2024. Maresca acknowledged the striker’s pre-season form but admitted being “embarrassed” by his limited chances.
“I feel embarrassed for Nkunku… because in pre-season, he was our best player. We had to adapt players, so we put him in a striker role, fully aware he's not a number nine,” said the coach.
During his first season at Stamford Bridge under Mauricio Pochettino, Nkunku struggled with injuries and consistency. With Maresca in charge, Nicolas Jackson has been favoured as Chelsea’s main Premier League striker, leaving Nkunku mainly involved in the FA Cup, EFL Cup and Conference League.
Despite a difficult season, Nkunku was among Chelsea’s top scorers in 2024-25 alongside Cole Palmer, though his limited league goals failed to convince the club.
Swap talks and summer window developments
Chelsea’s uncertainty over Nkunku sparked Bayern Munich’s interest in early 2025. The Blues explored a potential player swap involving Bayern forward Mathys Tel. During the summer window, Chelsea enquired about the 19-year-old, but talks stalled.
It had been expected that if initial transfer deals faltered, both clubs would revisit the idea at the end of the season. Fabrizio Romano reported that discussions were underway for a swap, with Chelsea keen on Tel and Bayern interested in Nkunku.
Ultimately, the swap did not materialise, and Nkunku was later sold to Tottenham following a season on loan from the Germans.
This article was originally published on Trivela.
