Chelsea and Bayern Munich open Christopher Nkunku talks but clubs' different plans may be stumbling block

Bayern have officially opened talks with Chelsea over a potential deal for Nkunku. According to Florian Plettenberg, the clubs are now in direct contact, with Nkunku understood to be keen on joining the German champions. An agreement between the Munich club and the player was already reached in January. The Blues are pushing for a permanent transfer, while the Bavarians are considering a loan move. No agreement has been reached yet, but Bayern sporting director Max Eberl has reportedly stepped up negotiations.

The Frenchman's future at Stamford Bridge looks bleak, as he is not part of Chelsea’s long-term plans despite his contributions to their Club World Cup-winning campaign. The London club have bolstered their attacking options with Jamie Gittens, Liam Delap, Joao Pedro and Estevao Willian, further limiting his opportunities. Bayern are seeking more attacking depth, especially with Kingsley Coman in talks to join Al Nassr for around €30m (£26m/$35m), and could swoop for Nkunku once that deal is done.

Write Nkunku joined Chelsea from RB Leipzig for €60 million (£51m/$66m) in 2023. Last season, he scored 14 goals and provided five assists in 42 competitive matches for the club. He has often been overlooked in favour of other options in the No.9, second striker, and playmaker roles. Interestingly, Nkunku is represented by star agent Pini Zahavi, who had already brokered Jonathan Tah to Bayern this summer. A return to RB Leipzig is not on the cards, but there is interest from other European clubs.

Bayern are expected to continue negotiations in the coming days, potentially pushing for a loan with an option to buy. Chelsea, however, are determined to secure a permanent deal before the transfer window closes.