Bayern Munich have opened talks with Chelsea for Christopher Nkunku, talkSPORT understands.
The German champions also made an enquiry for the French international back in January, but Chelsea’s £60million asking price was deemed too high.
Bayern would prefer to do a loan with a buy option, but a permanent transfer is not ruled out given Chelsea’s asking price has now dropped.
Bayern have also tried to add forward Nick Woltemade this month, but are yet to agree a fee with Stuttgart.
talkSPORT understands Nkunku will be allowed to leave for significantly less than the £52m Chelsea paid Leipzig back in summer 2023.
At the start of the window, Chelsea wanted just over £40m, but an exit could be sanctioned for south of this number now.
Nkunku’s market valuation is currently £30m according to Transfermarkt, and has fallen from £70m when the 27-year-old arrived at Stamford Bridge.
Nkunku has made 62 appearances for Chelsea scoring 18 times, but has been given limited starts with others preferred in the No.9 and second-striker or ten positions.
Chelsea still hope to add Leipzig’s Xavi Simons, which would further limit Nkunku’s minutes and an exit is viewed as suiting all parties before the window shuts.
Nkunku has also been discussed by Leipzig and would be open to a return to the club where he scored 70 goals in 172 games between 2019 and 2023.
What is the latest on Xavi Simons to Chelsea?
Chelsea are keen to offload Nkunku as they continue to explore another signing from RB Leipzig: Netherlands star Simons.
The Dutchman has agreed personal terms with the Blues ahead of a potential move to Stamford Bridge, but the clubs are yet to reach an agreement.
Leipzig are looking for £60m to part ways with Simons, while Chelsea are hoping to pay just over £50m.
A deal for Simons is also complicated by the fact he only just joined Leipzig permanently in January from Paris Saint-Germain.
The fee was just over £40m and included around £20m in bonuses, but it is not clear how many of those have been paid.
talkSPORT understands Manchester City are also contemplating a move for the 22-year-old.
Meanwhile, Chelsea remain in talks with Manchester United over a move for left-winger Alejandro Garnacho.
The Argentine is desperate to join the Blues but the Red Devils are holding out for £40m.