Bayern Munich eye Christopher Nkunku as Kingsley Coman’s replacement
Christopher Nkunku could be set for a Bundesliga return, and Bayern Munich are circling.
The Chelsea forward has endured a frustrating time at Stamford Bridge, with injuries and inconsistent game time blunting the impact many expected when he swapped Leipzig for London.
Why Bayern want him
The German champions see an opportunity to bring him back to a league where he once thrived, and potentially as a direct replacement for Kingsley Coman, who is closing in on a move to Al Nassr.
Nkunku ticks a lot of boxes for Bayern. He’s versatile, capable of playing through the middle or off either wing, and already proven in the Bundesliga.
At 27, the Frenchman is entering what should be his peak years. But at Chelsea, he’s struggled to become a guaranteed starter.
That has made him increasingly open to a move, with reports suggesting he would favour Bayern over a return to Leipzig.
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The price hurdle
Chelsea’s stance is the sticking point. They value Nkunku at around £65 million, a figure that had previously cooled Bayern’s interest.
But with Florian Wirtz off the market and other attacking targets proving too expensive or unavailable, the Bavarians are now considering whether Nkunku - whose market value is thought to be closer to €35-40 million - is the right player.
A deal could also be helped along if Bayern secure Coman’s sale and free up wages.
It’s not just Bayern in the race. Inter Milan, Dortmund and RB Leipzig are watching the situation, ready to pounce if talks in Munich stall.
But the personal side of the deal may favour the Bundesliga giants.
A fresh start on familiar ground
Nkunku is said to be keen on a reunion with the German top flight, and Bayern’s recent squad reshuffle could give him the prominent role he hasn’t managed to lock down in west London.
Last season, he scored 14 goals and registered five assists in all competitions, but never truly became the heartbeat of Chelsea’s attack.
Bayern would offer a fresh start in familiar territory, and for a club aiming to rebuild its forward line, Nkunku might just be the kind of signing to spark them back into life.
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