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.

Chelsea FC have enquired over a potential deal to sign Bayern Munich striker Mathys Tel (19), according to Fabrizio Romano. It has been reported that the French forward could be the subject of a swap

Chelsea have enquired over a potential deal to sign Bayern Munich forward Mathys Tel. The Premier League club have made contact with their Bundesliga counterparts to explore a move, with Bayern interested in signing Christopher Nkunku in a separate deal.

Bayern’s sudden interest in seasoned Chelsea attacker Christopher Nkunku has put the youngster in an awkward spot.

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.

Bayern Munich are still committed to offering Mathys Tel a pathway at the club despite Chelsea's continued interest. According to sporting director Christoph Freund, who himself was wanted by Chelsea in the past,

Could Tel lead the charge for a Bundesliga rival in the second half of the season? He’ll need to be convinced first.