Chelsea forward Christopher Nkunku is allegedly generating interest from at least five clubs.
The Blues are heading into the Christmas period sitting in second position in the Premier League table, helped by a five-match winning streak.
However, the consistent team selections of Enzo Maresca could bring about issues with some of his backup players, the Italian already acknowledging this week that a number of squad players could request an exit during the January transfer window.
Despite scoring 12 goals in all competitions, Nkunku falls into that bracket courtesy of having made just two starts in the top flight.
According to TBR Football, the 27-year-old has reached a decision over how he wishes to address his future.
Christopher Nkunku of Chelsea celebrates scoring against Southampton on December 4, 2024© Imago
Nkunku open to Stamford Bridge exit
The report claims that his representatives are actively looking for a solution elsewhere, aware that he will not be short of interest in his signature.
As many as five different clubs are said to be contemplating whether to make an approach for the France international, including former club Paris Saint-Germain.
RB Leipzig - another of Nkunku's ex-employers - are also said to be monitoring the situation as they consider how to bolster their Bundesliga title hopes.
Napoli are pushing for the league crown in Serie A and are seemingly of the opinion that acquiring Nkunku would boost their own ambitions.
Turkish giants Galatasaray and Fenerbahce are also allegedly interested in tempting Nkunku to Super Lig with regular first-team football.
What is Chelsea's stance?
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca in August 2024.© Imago
Maresca told reporters on Friday that he would hold conversations with any players who were open to a departure and the club would make a decision from there.
Although the report suggests that Chelsea would not prevent Nkunku from leaving if that was his preference, any proposal would need to come with the option of the versatile attacker leaving on a permanent basis in the summer.
Nkunku may decide to reassess his future after the Christmas period. He has still accumulated 993 minutes in all competitions ahead of Maresca likely rotating across the next batch of fixtures.
If Leipzig make their move, Chelsea could plausibly explore some kind of part-exchange deal involving Benjamin Sesko given that they allegedly retain an interest in the forward.
ID:561198:1false2false3false:QQ:: from db desktop :LenBod:collect5242: