Christopher Nkunku looks desperate to leave Chelsea this month, and the forward could get his wish.
Bayern Munich are interested in signing Christopher Nkunku, so that could be his escape route out of Chelsea.
The 27-year-old has only been a bit-part player under Enzo Maresca this season, making just three starts in the Premier League.
Nkunku has been unable to oust either Nicolas Jackson or Cole Palmer out of the Chelsea starting XI, and it now looks like the failure to do so will see him depart Stamford Bridge.
Christopher Nkunku desperate to make France’s 2026 World Cup squad
Nkunku missed the 2022 World Cup in Qatar because of injury. He now looks determined not to be absent for the next one.
According to The Athletic, the reason why Nkunku wants to play more and is pushing for an exit is because he is keen to make France’s squad for the 2026 World Cup. The same outlet claims that Chelsea value the forward at £65m.
Having to play second fiddle to Jackson, Nkunku knows that Maresca could end up costing him his dream if he remains in west London.
While Nkunku could be heading to Bayern, Mathys Tel could be leaving the German giants for Chelsea. Chelsea have enquired about Tel as they prepare for Nkunku’s potential departure.
Christopher Nkunku will be disappointed with Enzo Maresca
When Maresca first arrived at Chelsea, the 44-year-old said a lot of positive things about Nkunku.
Bearing that in mind, it was easy to come to the conclusion that the Frenchman would become a key player under his new manager.
Back in August, Maresca could not stop raving about Nkunku, saying: “I knew Nkunku before I joined and I love him. He can play in the pocket, as a nine and winger. He’s a very good fit for this system.”
Yet more than halfway into the season, and the Chelsea head coach has not really utilised him. After such high praise, you could not blame Nkunku if he felt a little bit disappointed with Maresca.
It is a shame that Nkunku’s move from RB Leipzig to Chelsea has not worked out, as the France international is a quality forward. At Bayern, maybe he will be able to resurrect his career.
