Manchester United have been linked with a move for Chelsea striker Christopher Nkunku in the summer transfer window
Christopher Nkunku of Chelsea looks on
Chelsea star Christopher Nkunku has been linked with a summer move to Manchester United
(Image: Getty Images)
Manchester United have reportedly been quoted a £35million fee to secure the signing of Chelsea forward Christopher Nkunku.
The Reds are said to view the underperforming Nkunku as a potential enhancement to their attacking line-up, with Chelsea willing to accept a substantial loss on the player they bought for £52million just two years prior.
At 27, Nkunku has become surplus to requirements at the Blues following their acquisition of Joao Pedro and Liam Delap for a combined £90m this summer. The Blues have also confirmed a £52m deal for Borussia Dortmund's Jamie Gittens, maintaining their pattern of high expenditure.
However, after receiving a hefty £78.5m fine from UEFA for breaching spending regulations, Chelsea will need to sell players.
A significant part of the fine - £51m - is suspended, but Chelsea must still adhere to the rules and are preparing for a major clear-out this summer. French international Nkunku is reportedly on United's radar, although they're also said to be considering Aston Villa's Ollie Watkins.
United are eager to offload Alejandro Garnacho, who has previously piqued Chelsea's interest, but financial restrictions and adherence to UEFA's sanctions may limit their options, reports the Express.
This situation could have opened the door for a potential swap deal, but Chelsea might need to concentrate on straightforward sales and reducing their squad size. With forwards like Nicolas Jackson in their ranks, whose disciplinary record has made him somewhat of a liability, Chelsea have plenty of decisions to make ahead of the new season.
The signing of Brazilian star Pedro, who can play as a central striker or on the wings, has fuelled speculation about Nkunku's future at the club.
Although the former RB Leipzig forward may not be United's primary target, he could prove to be a cost-effective alternative, especially as they are eager to secure Bryan Mbeumo's signature, having already signed Matheus Cunha from Wolves.
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