MLS
MLS
Transfers and Contracts
News

Exclusive: Nimfasha Berchimas Sparks European Transfer Frenzy as Bayern Lead the Race

Nimfasha Berchimas, the teenage soccer prodigy, is at the center of a transfer battle between English and German giants, with Bayern Munich leading the charge. Having impressed during trials at top clubs like Manchester United, his potential as an elite winger has attracted interest from major clubs like Chelsea and Real Madrid. Negotiations for a Summer 2026 transfer are progressing well, but there is still a possibility of other clubs swooping in.

Ekrem Konur
Ekrem Konur

Last updated: 2026-02-06

Louis Hobbs

2 minutes read

USA v Tajikistan:  FIFA Under-17 World Cup

USA v Tajikistan: FIFA Under-17 World Cup by Chris Ricco - FIFA | Getty Images

Nimfasha Berchimas, the 17-year-old sensation nicknamed the "wonderkid" of American soccer, has officially become the centrepiece of a high-stakes European transfer war. 

Following his brief but meteoric rise with Charlotte FC, a massive tug-of-war has erupted between English and German giants, with Bayern Munich now emerging as the definitive frontrunner in the race for his signature.

Scouting Observations

Berchimas has been under the intense microscope of Europe’s elite for several seasons. 

Unlike many prospects who are only monitored from afar, he has already taken part in top-level trials to showcase his potential firsthand. 

He previously trained at Manchester United’s Carrington base, which earned him a permanent place on their recruitment radar. 

Meanwhile, Bayern Munich has maintained aggressive contact ever since his trial period in Germany, giving them a significant head start over domestic rivals. 

Despite Bayern leading the chase, Manchester United are reportedly looking to hijack the deal. 

Heavyweights such as Chelsea, Real Madrid, Atletico Madrid, Newcastle, and Borussia Dortmund are all closely following his development.

Tactical Analysis: Why Is He in Demand? 

Capable of operating on either wing, Berchimas possesses the elite attacking traits required for the modern European game. 

Scouts have highlighted his explosive acceleration and top-end speed, which often leave veteran MLS defenders helpless. 

Despite his age, his composure under pressure and ability to secure consistent minutes at the professional level have seen his scouting grades skyrocket. For Bayern, he fits the exact profile of a "high-potential, athletic winger" destined for the first team.

Following the trail of American talent in Europe, Berchimas isn’t the only MLS youngster turning heads. Real Salt Lake’s rising star Zavier Gozo is also attracting interest from top clubs across the Premier League, La Liga, and Ligue 1. Like Berchimas, Gozo’s combination of pace, composure, and goal-scoring instincts has scouts taking notice, with RSL reportedly valuing the 18-year-old at €10–12M as he emerges as a potential key figure for the USMNT attack.

Current Transfer Status

Negotiations between Bayern Munich and Charlotte FC are described as "very promising." 

Berchimas does not turn 18 until February 22, there was no immediate rush to finalize a deal during the winter deadline.

This strategic pause makes a Summer 2026 transfer the most likely scenario. Currently, Charlotte FC holds significant leverage, with a contract running through the 2026 season and a club option for 2027.

If negotiations proceed without a hitch, Berchimas could join Bayern’s first-team pre-season camp this summer. 

However, the threat of a late "hijack" by Manchester United or Chelsea remains, as the Premier League giants are known for aggressive late-stage bidding.

Ekrem Konur
Ekrem KonurFootball Transfer Specialist

Ekrem Konur is a renowned football transfer specialist and journalist with a global reputation for breaking exclusive stories. He has established strong collaborations with major international outlets such as Marca, AS, Mundo Deportivo, Bild, Record, Daily Mirror, CaughtOffside, Goal, and ESPN. Additionally, Ekrem has a long-standing history of covering European football for the prominent Japanese magazine World Soccer Digest. With a massive digital reach of over 1.2 million followers and 60 million monthly impressions, he bridges the gap between club boardrooms and fans, serving as a leading authority in the global transfer market.