Bayern Talks Stall with Chelsea Over Striker Transfer | OneFootball

Chelsea Stand Firm on Christopher Nkunku as Bayern Talks Stall

Bayern Munich have failed with an approach to sign Christopher Nkunku on loan, with Chelsea insistent on a permanent sale. As reported by The Times, further discussions took place between the clubs over the weekend, but Chelsea remain firm that any departure for the Frenchman must be on a permanent basis.

Chelsea’s Transfer Calculations

The situation is as much about squad balance as it is about finances. Chelsea need to generate sales to push ahead with their interest in RB Leipzig forward Xavi Simons and Manchester United winger Alejandro Garnacho. That places Nkunku firmly on the list of players who could be moved on, yet the London club refuse to sanction a temporary switch.

Photo IMAGO

Inter Milan have also been linked, but like Bayern they would need to table a permanent offer. RB Leipzig considered a move too, although “it is understood that the France international had no interest in a return to his former club, who did not qualify for the Champions League this season.”

Bayern’s Urgency in Attack

Bayern remain interested in Nkunku, “as they are keen to reinforce their attack after selling Kingsley Coman to Al-Nassr on Friday.” Yet, “at this stage, unless there is a change in position, a deal is not likely to progress.”

Chelsea sources maintain that “Nkunku and Chelsea will continue to explore their options during this transfer window, and it is now expected that any deal may go down to the wire.” With four years left on the contract he signed in 2023 following a £52 million transfer from Leipzig, the player’s future remains uncertain.

Injury Frustrations at Stamford Bridge

Nkunku’s first campaign in England was hampered by injuries and he struggled to secure a permanent role under Enzo Maresca. He featured prominently at the Club World Cup but, frustratingly for Chelsea, “delayed his return to pre-season last week due to a small injury issue.”

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

Chelsea fans will be left both sceptical and disappointed by how Nkunku’s story has unfolded since his arrival. Signed with huge expectation, his impact has been minimal due to injuries and inconsistency. Supporters had hoped to see him become a central figure under Enzo Maresca, yet whispers of a possible exit only underline how far things have slipped.

There is frustration too at the club’s recruitment policy. Spending £52 million on a player with such promise, only to potentially cash in after one disrupted season, signals a lack of stability. Some fans argue Chelsea should show patience, give Nkunku time to regain full fitness and integrate properly. Others believe the club cannot afford another expensive passenger, especially with ambitions to sign Xavi Simons and Alejandro Garnacho.

From Bayern’s perspective, their pursuit underlines the high regard in which Nkunku is still held in Europe. The sale of Kingsley Coman leaves them with a clear need for attacking quality, yet their reluctance to commit to a permanent deal reflects caution. Inter Milan’s interest further complicates the picture, but again only if a permanent bid arrives.

If Nkunku stays, Chelsea fans will demand to see the player who lit up the Bundesliga. If he leaves, they will hope the club reinvests wisely. Either way, patience has worn thin and the next few weeks could define not only Nkunku’s career but Chelsea’s attacking identity.