Tottenham in talks with Bayern Munich over Mathys Tel transfer

Spurs are negotiating with Bayern Munich to sign Mathys Tel in a potential €60m deal.

Mathys Tel of FC Bayern Munich looks on before the Bundesliga match at Allianz Arena on January 18, 2025, in Munich, Germany. Photo by Sebastian Widmann/Getty Images

By Yuni Utomo and Widya Lestari

Tottenham Hotspur are in advanced discussions with Bayern Munich over the permanent transfer of Mathys Tel, with negotiations progressing toward a potential €60 million (£50.2m; $62.5m) agreement. The 19-year-old forward, who has struggled for regular playing time at the Allianz Arena, is seeking a fresh start, and Spurs are leading the race for his signature.

Tel has been on the fringes of the Bayern squad since joining from Rennes in 2022. Despite being highly rated, the France Under-21 international has started just nine Bundesliga games over three seasons, limiting his development. With opportunities scarce, he is now eager for a move that will provide him with consistent minutes and the chance to establish himself as a key player.

Spurs’ pursuit of Tel has reached an advanced stage, with both clubs engaged in discussions over a potential deal. If an agreement is finalized, the player will then decide whether to make the move to North London. Tottenham’s interest has been long-standing, and manager Ange Postecoglou is keen to add attacking depth to his squad before the January transfer window closes.

Other Premier League clubs have also expressed interest in Tel. Manchester United were reportedly considering a loan move if Bayern made him available before the window shuts. Chelsea, too, have been monitoring the French forward and made an inquiry earlier in January, with their interest dating back to previous transfer windows. However, Spurs appear to be in pole position, with a permanent deal the preferred option for all parties involved.

Tel’s journey at Bayern Munich

Since arriving at Bayern in 2022, Tel has made 83 appearances across all competitions, scoring 16 goals and providing seven assists. His debut season saw him play a crucial role in Bayern’s 2022-23 Bundesliga title-winning campaign, contributing five league goals.

Tel made an immediate impact after joining the German giants, becoming the club’s youngest-ever goalscorer at just 17 when he netted in a 5-0 victory over Viktoria Cologne. This record-breaking feat, surpassing Jamal Musiala’s previous mark, showcased his immense talent and potential.

Despite flashes of brilliance, Tel has struggled for regular playing time this season. He has featured 14 times across all competitions but has largely been used as a substitute. His most recent start came in Wednesday’s Champions League victory over Slovan Bratislava, where he played 62 minutes.

Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou has remained cautious when discussing transfer speculation. Following Spurs’ 3-0 Europa League win over Elfsborg, he was asked about Tel’s potential arrival but provided little insight.

“I can’t tell you anything,” Postecoglou said. “I’ve been focusing on getting the team prepared tonight. Other people are working in the background. As I’ve said all along, I’m allowing them to get on with it, and when and if there’s any news, I’m sure I’ll find out.”

While Postecoglou’s comments suggest that negotiations are being handled by club executives, Tottenham’s interest in Tel is clear. The club is looking to reinforce its attacking options, particularly with Son Heung-min often deployed in a central role and Richarlison yet to fully establish himself as a consistent goalscorer.

Why Tottenham want Mathys Tel

Tel is widely regarded as one of the most promising young forwards in European football. Despite limited minutes at Bayern, his skill set and potential make him an attractive option for a club like Tottenham.

The Frenchman is a dynamic and versatile attacker, capable of playing across the front line. He has been deployed both on the left wing and as a central striker, showcasing his adaptability. However, his best position remains a subject of debate, as he has yet to fully establish himself as either a pure winger or an out-and-out No. 9.

One of Tel’s biggest obstacles at Bayern has been the presence of Harry Kane, who became the most expensive signing in Bundesliga history when he joined from Tottenham last summer. Kane’s arrival has further limited Tel’s opportunities, making a move away from the Allianz Arena a logical next step.

For Tottenham, Tel represents an exciting prospect who could develop into a top-tier attacker under Postecoglou’s guidance. His raw ability, pace, and finishing potential align with Spurs’ attacking philosophy, making him a valuable long-term addition.

A switch to the Premier League would give Tel the opportunity he has been craving—consistent game time in a competitive environment. At Tottenham, he would have the chance to refine his skills and grow into a key player for a club aiming for Champions League qualification.

With Spurs actively building a young and dynamic squad, Tel fits the profile of the type of player they are targeting. His arrival would add depth and competition to the forward line while also providing Postecoglou with more tactical flexibility.

If he moves to North London, Tel will likely compete with Richarlison, Son, and Dejan Kulusevski for minutes. However, his potential and versatility could see him carve out a significant role in Spurs’ attack.

The next steps in the transfer saga

As the transfer window nears its end, Tottenham will be eager to finalize a deal with Bayern Munich. The discussions are progressing, and if terms are agreed upon, Tel will have a decision to make about his future.

Bayern, for their part, may be open to selling the young forward if they receive an offer that meets their valuation. With Kane firmly established as their starting striker and other attacking options available, Tel’s pathway to regular minutes in Munich remains uncertain.

For Tottenham, landing Tel would mark a significant move as they continue to strengthen their squad under Postecoglou. With the club pushing for a top-four finish, securing a player of Tel’s potential could be a statement signing for both the present and the future.

As negotiations unfold, Spurs fans will be watching closely to see if Mathys Tel becomes the latest addition to their squad. If the deal goes through, it could prove to be a pivotal moment in the club’s season, providing them with an exciting young talent ready to make his mark in the Premier League.