Man Utd 'make Christopher Nkunku transfer enquiry' as Chelsea stance emerges

Manchester United have enquired about Chelsea forward Christopher Nkunku ahead of a potential January move, according to reports. The Red Devils are expected to be active in the winter market to help Ruben Amorim get off to a strong start as manager.

Nkunku has emerged as a target for United, according to L’Equipe, with the Frenchman said to be unhappy with his playing time at Chelsea. He has been restricted to just one Premier League start this season despite scoring freely in other competitions.

The 26-year-old has already bagged nine goals in the Carabao Cup and Conference League but continues to be overlooked by Enzo Maresca. As a result, he is thought to be considering his future at Stamford Bridge with a January exit among the possibilities.

It is said that United are ready to make a statement of intent by bringing Nkunku to Old Trafford when the transfer window opens. However, several other clubs are believed to be keen which suggests United will face a battle to secure the forward’s signature.

The report adds that Chelsea would be open to selling Nkunku given the amount of firepower they currently have at their disposal. Only time will tell if they will be willing to do business with United or if the Blues would prefer to sell to a non-English club.

Nkunku has largely been forced to sit on the bench in the Premier League with Nicolas Jackson establishing himself as Chelsea’s first-choice striker.

Maresca addressed Nkunku’s situation ahead of the win over Newcastle earlier this month, explaining that he will get plenty of minutes with Chelsea battling on four different fronts.

“He’s going to help us because the season is very long,” said the Blues manager. “We have so many games and also sometimes the game plan can be different. It can be more for Christopher than Nico. We also have young talent so we can choose.”

Nkunku remains tied down at Chelsea until 2029, having signed a long-term contract upon his arrival at Stamford Bridge. His deal reportedly does not include a release clause, meaning the Blues will be under no pressure to sell even if he pushes for an exit.

Chelsea might be more willing to let Nkunku leave if they sign another forward, with Victor Osimhen still believed to be a target. He is currently on loan at Galatasaray but the deal is thought to have a break clause that would make him available in January.

Lille marksman Jonathan David is also reportedly on Chelsea’s radar and will be out of contract at the end of the season. If he does not sign an extension before the new year, he will be free to hold pre-contract talks in January with clubs outside of France.