
EPL Index
·17 Agustus 2025
Chelsea ‘in Talks’ with Bayern Munich Over 27-year-old Forward – Report

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·17 Agustus 2025
According to a report from The Daily Mail, Chelsea have entered discussions with Bayern Munich regarding the potential departure of Christopher Nkunku. The Bundesliga champions are thought to prefer a loan arrangement, but the dialogue remains ongoing.
This prospective exit could prove pivotal for Chelsea’s recruitment drive, with Xavi Simons of RB Leipzig and Manchester United winger Alejandro Garnacho high on the club’s radar.
The 27-year-old forward has slipped down the Stamford Bridge pecking order after the arrivals of Joao Pedro, Liam Delap, Jamie Gittens and Willian Estevao earlier this summer. Enzo Maresca himself offered a telling admission back in June when he remarked, “Christopher Nkunku may leave the club this summer.”
Chelsea invested heavily when they secured Nkunku on a six-year deal worth £52.7 million only two years ago, yet their openness to a sale reflects the speed with which the squad is evolving under Maresca.
As The Daily Mail highlighted, “Chelsea have opened talks with Bayern Munich over the proposed sale of Christopher Nkunku.” That potential deal would unlock funds for two further signings.
Daily Mail Sport have previously reported that Xavi Simons is expected to depart RB Leipzig after their failure to qualify for the Champions League. The Dutch international, still just 22, joined on a permanent deal last summer for an initial £43 million, with add-ons potentially rising to £26 million.
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Simons has built his reputation across spells at PSG, PSV and Barcelona’s academy, and crucially is said to be open to a move to Stamford Bridge. Sources note that Chelsea have already initiated talks with his representatives, which positions them favourably.
Chelsea are also pursuing Alejandro Garnacho, who has found himself out of favour at Manchester United under Ruben Amorim. Having asked for United’s valuation, they have been quoted £50 million, a figure far below the initial £70 million set by the Old Trafford hierarchy.
The Argentine winger has made 144 appearances, scoring 26 goals and contributing 22 assists. He has already won both the FA Cup and EFL Cup, yet Amorim has made it clear he is not part of future plans.
As the Daily Mail reported, “Garnacho has been informed that he has no future at United and is keen on the switch to Stamford Bridge this summer.”
Chelsea’s recruitment team have conducted due diligence on the player’s character and have no reservations about pursuing the deal.
The situation surrounding Nkunku underlines how swiftly Chelsea are moving to reshape their squad. The funds generated from his potential exit would give Maresca the flexibility to target emerging, ambitious players like Simons and Garnacho.
It is a bold approach, one that signals Chelsea’s intent not just to refresh but to lay down long-term foundations with a younger, dynamic attacking core.
From a Chelsea supporter’s perspective, the report will stir mixed feelings. On one hand, the idea of Christopher Nkunku leaving after only two seasons feels premature. Injuries and competition for places have limited his influence, yet the club’s willingness to move him on shows how ruthless this project under Enzo Maresca is becoming.
The links to Xavi Simons and Alejandro Garnacho are undeniably exciting. Simons has flair, vision and a high ceiling. Garnacho has Premier League experience, raw pace and the hunger to prove himself after being pushed aside at Manchester United. Both players would inject unpredictability and direct attacking quality, traits Chelsea have sometimes lacked in recent campaigns.
The financial aspect also matters. If Nkunku’s departure genuinely funds two arrivals, the club may view this as astute business. Supporters, however, might question the timing. Nkunku’s ability is proven and there is always the risk he flourishes elsewhere, particularly in a side like Bayern.
Still, Chelsea fans will ultimately measure success by results and silverware. Should Simons and Garnacho arrive and integrate quickly, the decision to sacrifice Nkunku may look like inspired squad management. Until then, many will watch nervously, aware that letting a talent of his calibre go could backfire.