As Chelsea gear up for their FIFA Club World Cup 2025 campaign, major transfer rumours are swirling — and they involve a familiar face in German football circles. The Blues, who lifted the trophy in 2021, return to the competition under new format changes that now feature 32 of the world’s top clubs. Their group includes LAFC, Flamengo, and ES Tunis, with Enzo Maresca aiming to kick off his continental tenure on the front foot.
But while the focus is on success in the United States, eyes across Europe — and particularly in Munich — are fixed on one of Chelsea’s marquee forwards. Christopher Nkunku, who arrived with high expectations from RB Leipzig in 2023, has yet to fully deliver in West London due to injuries and inconsistent game time. Now, Bayern Munich are circling, hoping to tempt the Frenchman back to the Bundesliga.
The timing of Bayern’s renewed interest adds an intriguing subplot to Chelsea’s summer, with Nkunku’s future becoming increasingly uncertain despite a long-term deal keeping him at Stamford Bridge until 2029.
Nkunku Linked with Bayern Return
German champions Bayern Munich are reportedly keen on bringing Christopher Nkunku back to the Bundesliga just two years after he joined Chelsea from RB Leipzig. The 27-year-old endured a difficult debut season plagued by injuries, but even after returning to fitness, he struggled to cement a starting place under Enzo Maresca.
According to journalist Ben Jacobs, Bayern initially enquired about Nkunku in January, when Chelsea valued him at over £60 million. While that valuation may have shifted, signs increasingly point to a potential summer exit.
“He was fit but never really trusted in the league,” noted Jacobs. “Chelsea were open to interest back in January.” — Ben Jacobs
Maresca’s Forward Plans Remain Unclear
Despite scoring 14 goals in 42 appearances last season, Nkunku started only 9 of Chelsea’s 38 Premier League matches. His minutes were largely confined to cup fixtures and the Europa Conference League. That has fuelled speculation that Maresca does not see him as a core part of his attacking rebuild.
Chelsea’s busy summer schedule — which includes Club World Cup group games against LAFC, Flamengo, and ES Tunis — could serve as a final audition window for Nkunku to convince Maresca otherwise.
Chelsea’s Club World Cup Group Stage Fixtures
| Fixture | Date |
|---|---|
| Chelsea vs LAFC | Mon 16 June |
| Chelsea vs Flamengo | Thu 19 June |
| Chelsea vs ES Tunis | Sun 22 June |
Chelsea’s Summer So Far
- Nkunku scored 14 goals in all competitions last season
- Started just 9 Premier League matches under Maresca
- Bayern expressed interest in January — £60m valuation reported
- Club World Cup begins 16 June in the USA
- Chelsea in Group B with LAFC, Flamengo, and ES Tunis
What’s Next for Nkunku?
With the Frenchman under contract until 2029, Chelsea are under no pressure to sell — but a serious offer from Bayern could test their resolve, especially if Maresca plans to reshape his attack.
Will Nkunku revive his Chelsea career or return to Germany with Bayern?
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