Manchester United could make a shock swoop for one of Chelsea’s best-performing players this season, according to French outlet L’Equipe.
The Red Devils have had a mixed start to the Premier League campaign. They are currently 13th in the table with 15 points but only four adrift of the top four.
The club have lacked the cutting edge in the final third in several games, and incoming manager Ruben Amorim could request an attacking acquisition in January.
The Portuguese has already ruled out the prospect of signing any Sporting CP stars, and Nkunku is reportedly on United’s radar.
Nkunku is frustrated with his current situation under Blues boss Enzo Maresca.
The Frenchman did not expect to play in the Europa Conference League and second fiddle in the Premier League. He is frustrated with his reduced minutes off the bench.
Nkunku has the ability to play anywhere in the attack, but Maresca prefers Cole Palmer, Noni Madueke, and Nicolas Jackson in the league games.
With Jadon Sancho, Pedro Neto, Joao Felix and Mykhailo Mudryk also competing for playing time, the Blues could open the door for Nkunku’s winter exit.
United can make a huge statement with Nkunku deal
The 26-year-old was one of the best strikers in the Bundesliga with RB Leipzig and there were huge expectations on him after Chelsea signed him in a pre-agreement.
His first campaign was a forgettable one due to multiple injuries. He has stayed unscathed this term but has failed to get the nod over Jackson to lead the Blues’ attack.
Nkunku is unlikely to displace Palmer for the number 10 role, but he is now behind Madueke and Neto in the pecking order for the wide attacking positions.
The Frenchman, who has scored ten goals this season, could push for a departure when the transfer window reopens.
United currently lack extra quality in the final third. Nkunku would be a superb acquisition if new manager Ruben Amorim plans to play with a 3-4-2-1 set-up.
Nkunku could line up alongside Bruno Fernandes in the attacking midfield positions, with Alejandro Garnacho and possibly Amad Diallo slotting in the wing-back roles.
The former Leipzig man made a name for himself due to his goalscoring and creativity from the number ten position, and he could be a dream partner for Fernandes under Amorim.
The club are most likely to propose a loan deal for the £54 million-rated star with an option to buy. However, the Blues may want a conditional obligation to purchase.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com.
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