Manchester United have wasted little time strengthening their attack this summer, but one new arrival isn’t enough after the club’s worst-ever scoring return in the Premier League era.
Matheus Cunha has already arrived, but Ruben Amorim knows the squad needs greater depth and variety in forward areas if United are to close the gap to the top four.
Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo remains a top target, but he isn’t the only option under discussion.
Now, another name has entered the conversation – one with a point to prove in English football.
Manchester United make first contact with Christopher Nkunku’s entourage
According to a report from L’Equipe, United have made contact with the representatives of Christopher Nkunku.
The 27-year-old forward has struggled to find form and fitness at Chelsea since his £52m move from RB Leipzig in 2023 – a price noted by Sky Sports – and is reportedly open to a fresh start.
Enzo Maresca has overlooked Nkunku in favour of other options, and the board appear ready to move on from a player whose time in blue has featured more setbacks than highlights.
The report states that while Mbeumo remains the primary focus, Nkunku has become a subject of genuine interest inside Old Trafford – not just in the technical team, but among top decision-makers.
It’s worth noting that there is no offer yet, and Nkunku’s name may also be surfacing to apply pressure on Brentford during ongoing talks for Mbeumo.
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One aspect of the report that newer fans may not recall: Amorim had pushed to sign Nkunku during his time at Sporting CP before Chelsea moved in. That existing admiration could be a factor.
Chelsea have since added Liam Delap to their front line, and there is now a willingness inside Stamford Bridge to let Nkunku leave if a suitable bid arrives this summer.
Regardless, the market is moving quickly – and United don’t want to be late to the table if Nkunku’s situation resolves fast.
Nkunku doesn’t feel like a direct fit for what United need
United were linked with Nkunku in January, but nothing materialised. It felt like a move of opportunity rather than necessity back then, and that hasn’t fully changed.
The profiles of other linked forwards – like Viktor Gyokeres, who is direct and athletic, or Hugo Ekitike, who brings unpredictability and pace – seem to fit Amorim’s tactical shifts more naturally.
Nkunku, candidly, hasn’t played as a line-leading striker since his RB Leipzig days. His defensive work rate has also declined, which is noticeable when comparing that era to now.
He would make more sense playing behind the main striker, which raises questions about why the club is still so invested in pursuing Bryan Mbeumo.
The links to Nkunku may suit United as a bargaining tool. Making Brentford feel there are alternatives could help them seal the move they truly want.
While Nkunku still carries quality when fit, these links make more sense as backup planning than as headline ambition.
from HITC https://ift.tt/lHr1Q5L
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