Bayern Munich open talks with Chelsea over €40m Christopher Nkunku transfer | OneFootball

Bayern Munich have opened discussions with Chelsea over the possible signing of Christopher Nkunku.

The Bundesliga champions are exploring a loan deal with an option to buy and a permanent transfer.

Chelsea favour an outright sale and are unwilling to sanction a temporary move.

Nkunku is open to joining Bayern, with the player’s camp already in contact with the German club.

Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg reports that Bayern’s interest has grown after their pursuit of VfB Stuttgart forward Nick Woltemade stalled.

The French forward is viewed as a versatile solution who can cover for Jamal Musiala, support Harry Kane or operate on the wing.

Bayern believe his familiarity with the Bundesliga will allow him to adapt quickly.

A fee in the region of €35-40 million is under discussion, considerably lower than the €60m Chelsea paid to sign him from RB Leipzig in 2023.

Nkunku previously enjoyed a prolific spell at Leipzig, scoring 20 goals and providing 15 assists in the 2021–22 Bundesliga season.

His time at Chelsea has been disrupted by injuries, limiting his impact under successive managers.

The 27-year-old made notable contributions during the club’s Club World Cup-winning campaign last season, but his league appearances were restricted.

Chelsea’s recent attacking additions, including Jamie Gittens, Liam Delap, Joao Pedro and Estevao Willian, have further reduced his chances of regular football.

Nkunku is not part of Enzo Maresca’s long-term plans and is eager to find a new challenge.

Bayern’s interest intensified after Saudi Pro League club Al-Nassr approached them regarding Kingsley Coman.

The German champions view Nkunku as a potential replacement for Coman if that transfer proceeds.

Journalist Fabrizio Romano confirmed that initial contact between the clubs began around the time of Al-Nassr’s enquiry for Coman.

Leipzig have also been linked with Nkunku, though a return to Saxony is not currently on the table.

Bayern have already spent over £65m to sign Luis Diaz from Liverpool this summer, but remain intent on further strengthening their attack.

Negotiations between Chelsea and Bayern are ongoing, with the structure of the deal yet to be agreed.

Nkunku’s future could be decided in the coming days, depending on whether Bayern meet Chelsea’s valuation.