MUNICH (AP) — Bayern Munich's sporting director Christoph Freund says the German club is planning to keep Mathys Tel, after several media reports linked the French forward with a move to Chelsea. Freund said Tuesday that the 19-year-old Tel was a “very important player” for Bayern and that the club wants to follow a plan for his development.

Bayern Munich have reportedly begun talks with Chelsea regarding the transfer of Christopher Nkunku, all while the two clubs discuss a separate deal involving a move for Bayern's Mathys Tel. Chelsea are open to parting ways with Nkunku and are looking for a transfer fee of around $80 million,

Chelsea ’s hopes of signing Mathys Tel this month have been dealt a blow, with Bayern Munich stressing that their “clear plan” is for the teenager to “make his breakthrough” in Germany. The Blues have been interested in forward Tel since last summer and have enquired over his availability this month amid Bayern’s interest in Christopher Nkunku.