Chelsea may need to act quickly – Bayern Munich make €32m move for BlueCo target
Chelsea’s hopes of landing Gabriel Bontempo could become more complicated. Bayern Munich reportedly stepped up their pursuit of the Santos midfielder with a proposal already on the table.
The Blues were linked with the 18-year-old last week. At that time, we covered claims that BlueCo had added the teenager to its list of monitored prospects.
At that stage, the report claimed Chelsea’s owners were considering their now familiar strategy of signing the player before sending him to Strasbourg to continue his development. There was no indication an offer had been made.
According to a fresh report from RTI Sport again, Bayern Munich have moved further down the road.
Bayern make first move
The Brazilian outlet claims the Bundesliga champions have signalled an offer worth €32m (£27.7m) for Gabriel Bontempo. They are looking to secure one of Santos’ brightest academy graduates as well.
That figure is reportedly well below Santos’ valuation. The Brazilian club are said to be demanding €49m (£42.4m) before opening negotiations.
The gap leaves plenty of room for discussions, but the report states Bayern are studying ways to bridge the difference and keep talks moving during the current transfer window.
Santos are also said to recognise their financial situation could become a factor. While the club are reluctant to lose one of their biggest prospects, they are looking to strengthen their finances. Therefore they would consider a sale if an acceptable offer arrives.
Chelsea yet to make their move
Gabriel Bontempo remains under contract until December 2028 and has a €100m (£86.5m) release clause. However, Santos reportedly accept it is highly unlikely any club will trigger that figure.
BlueCo’s reported plan of developing Bontempo through Strasbourg before a possible switch to Stamford Bridge remains only an idea at this stage. Meanwhile, Bayern appear to have taken a more direct approach.
The midfielder has enjoyed a breakthrough campaign, recording four goals and three assists in 27 appearances this season, form which has helped attract growing attention from across Europe.
If RTI Esporte’s latest information proves accurate, Chelsea could soon find themselves entering the chase a bit too late.
