Bayern Munich appear to have inadvertently given Chelsea the opportunity to hijack Arsenal's plan to sign Ryan Gravenberch. The 21-year-old midfielder faces an increasingly uncertain future at the Allianz Arena after struggling to nail down a place in the starting lineup this season.
Gravenberch's impressive performances for Ajax last term earned him a move to Bayern in the summer, but he's not been given the opportunity to fulfil his lofty potential. The Netherlands international has featured 22 times for Thomas Tuchel's side in the Bundesliga – of which he's started just two.
According to German publication Sport1, the Bavarians will pursue a move for Mateo Kovacic if Gravenberch leaves in the summer. football.london understands that the Blues are prepared to let the Croatia international leave, with Bayern said to be the front runners for his signature.
READ MORE: Christian Pulisic sends Chelsea three-word message amid $32m transfer claims
Kovacic has just 12 months remaining on his deal at Stamford Bridge and faces an increasingly uncertain future. Meanwhile, Arsenal are said to be interested in signing Gravenberch from the reigning Bundesliga champions, with Mikel Arteta hoping to further bolster his midfield options ahead of next season.
So, if Chelsea were to pile on the misery after snatching Mykhailo Mudryk in January, they seem to already have leverage in a potential swap deal. In exchange for a 29-year-old, who has just 12 months left on his deal, the Blues could – in theory – receive a £26million-rated youngster who has far more room for growth.
Nevertheless, Gravenberch previously vented his frustrations at his lack of game time since joining Bayern. In an interview with Dutch outlet VI, he admitted that he's unhappy and wants to be playing regularly.
"In the beginning, of course, I had to get used to it here," said Gravenberch. "A new environment. Everything goes so much faster, sometimes training sessions just felt like competitions.
"It's the European top, you can't miss a moment. But I feel that getting used to it has been behind me for a while now. Training and playing at the top level for a year is beautiful and instructive. Although playing, it is mainly training.
"That has to change next season, then I really want to play weekly again. I haven't spoken to the club management yet, so just wait and see what happens. But it is clear that this role does not match my expectations."
READ NEXT:
First Mauricio Pochettino transfer confirmed as Chelsea beat Man United to £17.6m wonderkid
Chelsea transfer target Victor Osimhen has told Mauricio Pochettino what he wants to hear
Mauricio Pochettino to block £26m Chelsea transfer decision as Todd Boehly summer plan scrapped
Man City chief launches attack on Arsenal, Chelsea and Man Utd amid transfer spending accusation
Chelsea news and transfers LIVE: All the latest updates from Stamford Bridge
