Manchester United have reportedly rekindled their interest in Christopher Nkunku after making contact with the Chelsea striker about a potential transfer in recent days.
Nkunku is all but assured of leaving Chelsea after a weak season in which he struggled for game time at home and failed to convince Enzo Maresca. This led to the 27-year-old missing the last nine games of the season.
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The decision by both Nkunku and Chelsea to part ways has apparently piqued United’s interest. According to L’Équipe, United have contacted the Frenchman’s representatives to discuss the terms of a transfer, but have not yet made an offer.
United considered Nkunku in January
United considered a move for Nkunku in January, but Chelsea were reluctant to let a squad player leave in the middle of the season. Now, however, they are willing to sell the striker this summer.
Ruben Amorim’s side are operating under strict financial constraints after losing European football next season, and they have expanded their search for attacking strength after Brentford demand up to €80 million for United’s top goalkeeper Bryan Mbeumo.
Although United want to sign both Mbeumo and an extra striker, it remains to be seen if they pursue a deal in the coming weeks. The player is attracting interest from several clubs, but concrete negotiations have not yet started.
United hope to capitalise on Nkunku’s low value
Nkunku joined Chelsea for €60 million in 2023, but the former RB Leipzig star arrived injured and only got two games from the start in his debut season at Stamford Bridge.
Despite finishing his second season as Chelsea’s second-leading goalscorer in all competitions, Nkunku had a disappointing campaign. Only three of his 15 goals came in the Premier League over 27 games – of which only nine were starts.
Nkunku failed to prove himself as a clean number nine for Chelsea during a two-month absence from first-choice goalkeeper Nicolas Jackson, and all parties are aware that he has no long-term future at the club.
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Despite his injury and form issues, United can see Nkunku as a versatile and affordable option to bolster their attack. Chelsea could be forced to accept a loan or a reduced price to get rid of a player who still has four years left on his contract.
