Chelsea and Bayern Continue Player Swap Negotiations

Chelsea and Bayern Munich have explored the possibility of exchanging players, including Mathys Tel and Christopher Nkunku.

Recently, "Chelsea" engaged in initial discussions with "Bayern Munich" regarding a potential swap involving players, with several athletes being considered in the deal. This January, the "Blues" have been uncharacteristically quiet on the transfer market, with more rumors about departures than arrivals.

It is rumored that Renato Veiga agreed to move to "Borussia Dortmund" for around £12 million, although he only joined "Chelsea" from "FC Basel" for the same fee this summer. The German team is also interested in acquiring Carney Chukwuemeka, who has drawn interest from "Crystal Palace" and Serie A clubs this month.

"Chelsea" is also attempting to find a buyer for Ben Chilwell without much success, while the future of Christopher Nkunku remains uncertain. The French player joined "Chelsea" from "RB Leipzig" for £52 million in the summer of 2023 and might be used in negotiations with "Bayern" over a move for Tel.

Renowned transfer expert Fabrizio Romano revealed on Monday that Tel is on "Chelsea’s" radar this month. He stated: "Chelsea" discussed Mathys Tel with "Bayern" in recent days, early stages of contacts to be informed on his situation. Tel spoke with Kompany 10 days ago as he wants to succeed at "Bayern"; while "Chelsea" asked for info on Tel during talks with the German club." Tel looked set to achieve great things this season, having broken into the first team last term with ten goals and six assists.

Despite playing much of his football before his £20m move from "Rennes" as a centre-forward, last season he predominantly played on the left wing as the formidable figure of Harry Kane was blocking his path to the No.9 role. The arrival of Michael Olise has pushed him further down the pecking order, and he has featured for just 351 minutes under Vincent Kompany.

Later on Monday, Romano added: "More on Mathys Tel and Chelsea story. "Bayern" and "Chelsea" held initial talks about a possible player swap. "Bayern" inquired about the Christopher Nkunku situation at "Chelsea," as BILD reported. Nothing advanced/close yet, but basic discussions took place."

Nkunku is said to be frustrated by his lack of opportunity under Enzo Maresca, who has preferred Nicolas Jackson in the central striker role in the Premier League this season. The French international has had to settle for appearances from the bench and starts in cup competitions. It’s not clear whether "Chelsea" would agree to a straightforward swap, with Nkunku valued at €50m and Tel at just €30m.

It is also confirmed that centre-back Axel Disasi could be leaving the club amid interest from "Juventus". Romano wrote on X: "Understand Disasi’s expected to be out of Chelsea squad tomorrow as he may leave in January. There are important clubs already in talks to explore a January move, and "Chelsea" is open to this solution following discussions with the player."