Chelsea hold transfer 'talks' over signing as Christopher Nkunku swap deal 'offered'
Chelsea have reportedly held talks with Bayern Munich over a potential January transfer for winger Mathys Tel, as Enzo Maresca looks to add to his squad before the end of the month.
According to journalist Fabrizio Romano, early stages of contact have taken place between the two clubs, with Chelsea asking to be informed of Tel’s situation. The 19-year-old has struggled to establish himself as a regular in Bayern’s starting lineup so far this season with him being an unused substitute in the weekend’s Bundesliga clash against Borussia Monchengladbach.
His lack of game time has led to some speculation that he could be available on loan in the January window. Sky Germany have previously reported back in November that Nottingham Forest were showing an interest, but Tel was keen to stay with Bayern.
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Romano adds that there has been talks between the player and Bayern manager Vincent Kompany over the past 10 days, with Tel outlining his desire to succeed at the club.
Further reports from German outlet Bild take the links with Chelsea further; journalist Christian Falk claims that Chelsea have already made an offer to Bayern. The offer is reported to consist of a swap deal that would see Christopher Nkunku go the other way.
Like Tel at Bayern, Nkunku has struggled for regular game time at Stamford Bridge. He has started just three Premier League games under Enzo Maresca.
It is reported that the Frenchman is growing frustrated with his lack of game time, and his representatives are exploring potential January moves. The 27-year-old scored in the weekend's 5-0 FA Cup third round win over Morecambe but was an unused substitute in the previous Premier League clash against Crystal Palace.