Bayern is quietly active this January. There were certain speculations that they intended to pursue Dani Olmo (if the legal dispute over his registration had not been resolved in Barcelona’s favor). Rumors about their interest in Kyle Walker turned out to be false. So far, most stories have revolved around negotiations with Joshua Kimmich, Alphonso Davies, and Jamal Musiala, as well as attempts to keep this important trio in Munich. That was the case until last night, but then an interesting “hot story” emerged, with Mathys Tel and Christopher Nkunku as the main protagonists. The information originated in England and quickly spread to Germany and the rest of Europe. It states: Chelsea has proposed a swap deal to Bayern! Fabrizio Romano opened ‘Pandora’s box‘ with the news that the Blues had inquired about the young Frenchman from Bayern. Christian Falk then confirmed the story with his famous “true” checkmark, adding that Chelsea had made a concrete proposal for a swap deal. Florian Plettenberg then chimed in with additional details.Real Madrid moving away from DaviesOne of Germany’s top transfer journalists wrote that there are assurances Christopher Nkunku is determined to leave Stamford Bridge at all costs, that he is very interested in Bayern as an option, and that negotiations between the two clubs have already begun. He wrote that talks are ongoing but in the early stages and that Thel‘s decision will be the key for any deal. The promising forward is in a rather unusual position. He was bought for a significant sum by German standards (20 million euros) with the promise that he would be a key part of the club’s project. However, Vincent Kompany hasn’t been giving him opportunities. He even played more minutes during 2023. About ten days ago, he had a one-on-one conversation with the coach, after which sources close to the player suggested that he wants to stay and fight for his place. At that moment, the rumors of a loan move were dismissed.Ouch! Kimmich fires deadly shots at his former Munich coach TuchelIt’s clear that the situation is now different and that the 19-year-old is facing a much greater challenge. As for Nkunku, his injury is finally behind him, but his impact on Chelsea’s game in serious matches has been minimal—or nonexistent. He has played only 390 minutes in the Premier League this season and has started just three times. It’s well-known that Bayern is planning to go all-in for Florian Wirtz after the season. However, there’s a chance the young German will extend his contract and stay at Leverkusen for another year. For that reason, Bayern’s management at Säbener Straße must consider a “bridge” for those 12 months. Nkunku seems like an easier target and a more affordable option than Xavi Simons, who has also been discussed recently. The question is whether Bayern is ready to part ways with Tel, whom they not long ago presented as the best player in the world born in 2005.BUNDESLIGA – MATCHDAY 17Tuesday 20.30: (5.25) Holstein Kiel (4.60) Dortmund (1.55)22.30: (1.75) Eintr.Frankfurt (3.80) Freiburg (5.20)22.30: (1.35) Leverkusen (5.00) Mainz (9.00)22.30: (1.92) Wolfsburg (3.50) M’ gladbach (4.00)Wednesday 20.30: (2.65) Bochum (3.30) St.Pauli (2.90)22.30: (1.13) Bayern (12.0) Hoffenheim (18.0)22.30: (2.05) Stuttgart (3.70) RB Leipzig (3.70)22.30: (1.85) Union Berlin (3.50) Augsburg (4.40)22.30: (1.63) Werder (4.00) Heidenheim (5.30)***odds are subject to change***
