Chelsea forward Christopher Nkunku has reportedly emerged as a shock target for Manchester United.
Ruud van Nistelrooy did a good job steadying the ship after Erik ten Hag was sacked following a disastrous start to the Red Devils’ season. Ruben Amorim is set to take over and he will have his ideas of working and targets. Yet, that hasn’t stopped the Mancunian giants from being linked with players.
According to French newspaper L’Equipe, Manchester United are eyeing a move for Chelsea’s Christopher Nkunku in the January transfer window.
The France international, 26, moved to Chelsea in the summer of 2023 from RB Leipzig, however, he missed the majority of last season due to several injuries. This season under Enzo Maresca, the versatile attacker has not been a regular starter in the Premier League, with the Blues boasting plenty of options.
As such, Nkunku is unhappy with his situation at Stamford Bridge and wants to leave in January. Chelsea are not fully against letting the 26-year-old leave in the New Year as long as they can recoup the full £52 million that they shelled on his services last summer.
Christopher Nkunku to Manchester United—A good option?
As goals came at a premium last season, Manchester United bolstered their attacking ranks in the summer by signing Joshua Zirkzee from Bologna. However, the 23-year-old has endured a difficult start at Old Trafford, having scored one goal in eleven Premier League appearances.
It is said that the club are ready to part ways with Zirkzee in the January transfer window itself, with new head coach Ruben Amorim keen to move him on amid hopes of bringing in a new striker. The Netherlands international will not be short of suitors in Serie A, and by moving him on, the club may look at signing Christopher Nkunku from Chelsea.
Nkunku is Chelsea’s top scorer this season with 10 goals in 17 games across all competitions, with none of those coming in the Carabao Cup and the Conference League. Yet, he continues to be overlooked by Maresca, and as a result, the attacker wants to leave Chelsea.
The France international could be a strong addition to Manchester United’s offensive unit. His versatility to play in different attacking roles aligns well in Amorim’s preferred 3-4-2-1 system. Nkunku could potentially operate in one of those No.10 roles or even operate as a striker, bringing goals, assists, creativity and flair to the side.
If he manages to stay fit, the ex-RB Leipzig star has the tools to thrive under Amorim at Old Trafford. That being said, the Red Devils should only look to sign Nkunku on loan from Chelsea with an option to buy.
