“Exchanging him for Nkunku is a win-win situation for both teams. We get a super talented youngster and they get an experienced striker that can support Harry Kane. That young lad is going to lead to a top-four finish” – This is according to Enzo Maresca as a sensational January exchange deal that could propel Chelsea toward a top-four Premier League finish on the way with FC Bayern Munchen.

Chelsea have been linked with a massive swap deal in the January transfer window—but does the move actually make sense?

Initially, it was widely believed that Chelsea’s transfer activity this month would primarily focus on offloading players who do not fit into Enzo Maresca’s plans. However, a fresh transfer rumor suggests the club may have found an opportunity to achieve two goals at once: securing an exciting young forward while also parting ways with a player who has failed to meet expectations.

According to Fabrizio Romano, Chelsea have expressed interest in Bayern Munich’s rising star Mathys Tel, a highly-rated 19-year-old forward considered one of Europe’s most promising talents. At the same time, Bayern have reportedly made inquiries about Christopher Nkunku, potentially paving the way for a rare swap deal. German outlet Bild has also reported on this developing story.

While Tel’s talent is undeniable, would this move be the right one for Chelsea? Could he provide the spark needed to boost their Champions League ambitions? And is it too soon for the club to part ways with Nkunku, who arrived just 18 months ago in a £52m transfer?

How Good Is Mathys Tel?

French U21 international Mathys Tel made headlines in 2022 when Bayern Munich secured his services from Rennes for a €28.5m (£24m) fee—despite him having made just 10 senior appearances at the time. The young forward was immediately integrated into Bayern’s first-team squad and has since impressed, scoring 12 goals and providing five assists in the Bundesliga despite making only seven starts.