Revealed: Bayern's latest signing rejected Chelsea transfer

James Shearman

• Updated: 16 Nov 2023 21:06 GMT
• 3 min read

Bayern Munich signing Nestory Irankunda rejected Chelsea in favour of a move to the Bundesliga champions, reports journalist Christian Falk.

Irankunda, who broke through at A League club Adelaide United, recently completed the move worth just under £3 million.

Having registered 11 goal contributions in 28 league games, the 17-year-old winger was subject to interest from several clubs around the world.

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And, Chelsea, who have made a habit of signing exciting young talent in recent years, were firmly among them, according to Falk.

"There were offers from Premier League teams, but my father said he supported Bayern," said Irankunda.

The winger will now be tasked with forcing his way into head coach Thomas Tuchel's plans.

Chelsea's Irankunda alternative

Chelsea will have to look elsewhere for their next wonderkid signing, having missed out on Irankunda to Bayern.

If the Blues are specifically looking for a young winger, then Fidel Barajas could be the man for the job.

The left-footed right-winger is plying his trade with Charleston Battery in the American second division, helping his side mount an unlikely title challenge before departing for the U-17 World Cup with Mexico.

In 2023, Barajas recorded five goals and 11 assists and was named the Players' Choice Young Player of the Year by his peers.

As a result, Mexican media have reported that Chelsea, Atletico Madrid and PSV are the European sides holding a strong interest.

In North America, several MLS clubs and Mexican side Necaxa are said to be keen on the youngster.