Christopher Nkunku has decided to leave Chelsea in January, potentially offering Manchester United a significant boost in their quest to replace Marcus Rashford. Although Nkunku is Chelsea’s top scorer this season with 12 goals across competitions, most of these have come in the UEFA Conference League and Carabao Cup, with limited Premier League appearances. According to TBR Football, the 27-year-old is now ready to seek an exit due to his struggles to secure a regular spot in the starting XI.
Nkunku has been linked to Manchester United, with the report suggesting that the Red Devils could secure a replacement for Rashford if Nkunku moves. Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) are reportedly the primary club interested in the French international, although Serie A contenders Napoli, Turkish powerhouses Fenerbahce and Galatasaray, and several Bundesliga and Saudi Pro League teams are also pursuing him.
A transfer to PSG could trigger a chain reaction that might open the door for Randal Kolo Muani’s potential move to Manchester United. Kolo Muani, who joined PSG for £76 million from Frankfurt in the summer of 2023, could be made available in January. United has identified him as a suitable replacement for Rashford, and PSG’s pursuit of Nkunku would likely lead to Kolo Muani’s exit, making him available for United and other interested clubs like Arsenal.
Chelsea would reportedly allow Nkunku to leave if he requests, potentially on loan with an option to buy. The Blues are looking for a forward more suited to replace Nicolas Jackson, as head coach Enzo Maresca believes Nkunku is better suited as a number 10 rather than a striker. Maresca acknowledged this, stating, “I don’t think Nkunku is a striker. His best position is number 10.”
Manchester United may pursue Nkunku, who has proven his goal-scoring ability at Chelsea, but the player may favor a return to France, making Kolo Muani surplus to requirements at PSG. This situation could allow Manchester United to make a move for Kolo Muani as a potential replacement for Rashford.
