Barry’s bid to join Tuchel at Bayern Munich could happen AFTER a potential Champions League clash

Graham Potter has suggested that Anthony Barry’s move to Bayern Munich could be delayed until a possible Champions League clash between Chelsea and the Bundesliga giants.

Thomas Tuchel was named successor to Julian Nagelsmann at Bayern Munich and has been keen to bring Chelsea manager Barry with him to the club after a successful spell together at Stamford Bridge.

However, Potter has now hinted at the uncertainty surrounding the move as he is unwilling to let Barry go ahead of a potential Champions League semi-final clash against the German club.

He told reporters: ‘Of course I have spoken to Anthony. Someone I respect a lot. Given everything for Chelsea. I understand that people have aspirations and it’s about respecting that.’

Asked if he’s worried about letting his manager leave ahead of a possible Champions League clash with Bayern Munich, Potter admitted: “It’s club to club, not for me.” obviously it’s something [delaying a move until after a potential clash against Bayern Munich] that’s in the conversation for obvious reasons.

Barry (left) forged a strong relationship with Thomas Tuchel (right) during their time together

Graham Potter (centre) has admitted he will respect Barry’s decision (left)

The Chelsea head coach went on to reveal that Barry is not currently working with the team as the two clubs remain in negotiations before hinting that the Blues may not seek a replacement for the manager if he leaves.

‘Anthony is in discussion, the clubs are in discussion. He is not with us at the moment while things are being worked out,’ Potter continued. ‘I don’t know [how long it will take]. It’s not something I’m involved in.

I have great respect for Anthony, a fantastic coach and person. These things happen in life and in football. We have a good staff here who can fill the void. There is no direct replacement for anyone, but the collective can fill in.’

This comes after Tuchel revealed that he is “optimistic” about finalizing a deal for Barry as he wishes to take him to Germany.

Potter told reporters that “there is no direct replacement” for Barry if he leaves.

The former Chelsea manager told reporters: “It’s a matter between the clubs.” It is still my absolute desire that he come. The clubs have to come to an agreement. But I am optimistic.

However, Chelsea may not be willing to let their manager leave before potentially facing him in the Champions League semi-final, which would put them at a disadvantage and this could delay a move until after the semi-finals, according to Nizaar Kinsella.

The Blues could face Bayern Munich in the Champions League semi-finals, but they must first get past Real Madrid if they want to reunite with former boss Tuchel.

Bayern face Manchester City in the quarter-finals and would have to beat Pep Guardiola’s side to see Barry potentially go toe-to-toe with Chelsea.