Christopher Nkunku, Man United, Ruben Amorim
(Credit: Imago)
Mick Brown
Fri 11 July 2025 7:00, UK
Man United are still interested in a deal to sign Chelsea forward Christopher Nkunku this summer, according to their former chief scout.
Mick Brown, who worked at Old Trafford for over a decade during the club’s most successful period and remains very well-connected there, exclusively told Football Insider that the 27-year-old will leave Stamford Bridge as he has no role under Enzo Maresca.
However, the deal may depend on whether Ruben Amorim’s side can complete a deal for Bryan Mbeumo amid question marks about Nkunku’s position.
Brown told Football Insider on 1 July that Man United are close to signing Mbeumo and remain in behind-the-scenes talks with Brentford about a final fee.
In the meanwhile, the recruitment team are continuing to keep tabs on Nkunku, as they do not view him as an out-and-out striker but as an option to play behind the number nine.
This comes after Football Insider revealed that Nkunku could push for an exit from Chelsea as a result of limited first-team opportunities under Maresca.
Chelsea, Christopher Nkunku
Christopher Nkunku is on Man United’s radar. (Credit: Imago)
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Man United weigh up Christopher Nkunku deal after Chelsea reveal
Brown told Football Insider in April that Nkunku will “definitely” leave Chelsea this summer as United continue to keep tabs on his situation at Stamford Bridge.
The former scout who has a wealth of experience in top-level player recruitment and also worked for the likes of Tottenham, Aston Villa and West Ham, insisted that the Red Devils’ interest is strong, but may depend on Mbeumo’s future.
“*Man United are still looking at Christopher Nkunku,*” he told Football Insider.
“I must admit, I’ve only ever seen him play once, when he scored a hattrick against Man City and his team lost the game 6-3, but he was outstanding that night.
“United, though, have been watching him a lot more often than I have.
“He’s going to be available from Chelsea because he doesn’t have a part to play.
“They still want to sign another forward, but they’re looking to sign an out-and-out centre-forward.
“I don’t think he’s one of those, he’s more similar to the likes of Cunha and Mbeumo, so if both of those come in, I don’t see where he would fit.
“If the Mbeumo deal falls through, for whatever reason, maybe they will make a move.
“He’s somebody they’re keen on, but they won’t go for both him and Mbeumo.”
Ruben Amorim Man United
Ruben Amorim wants to strengthen his squad. (Credit: Imago)
Alejandro Garnacho update emerges after Amorim verdict
While there is still a focus on incoming players at Old Trafford, Amorim is also looking to cut players from his squad, including Alejandro Garnacho.
Brown told Football Insider on 10 July that United will slash their asking price for Garnacho after failing to drum up interest in a permanent move this summer.
Brown told Football Insider in May that Amorim is forcing Garnacho out of Man United following a public bust-up over his playing time last season.
However, that has put the club in a weak negotiating position and will force them to accept offers below the winger’s original market value.
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