Man Utd close in on third signing as Chelsea name give £35m price for striker

Manchester United’s summer rebuild could soon include a high-profile addition from a Premier League rival, with Chelsea reportedly quoting United a £35 million fee for French forward Christopher Nkunku.

The 27-year-old, who joined Chelsea from RB Leipzig for £52 million in 2023, is now available for a significantly reduced price after a challenging spell at Stamford Bridge, reported The Mirror.

Nkunku arrived in England with high expectations but has struggled to establish himself as a first-team regular, largely due to persistent injury setbacks and fierce competition for places.

Last season, he managed 15 goals and five assists in 46 appearances across all competitions, but only three of those goals came in the Premier League.

Chelsea’s new manager, Enzo Maresca, has brought in several attacking reinforcements this summer—including Joao Pedro, Liam Delap, and Jamie Gittens—pushing Nkunku further down the pecking order.

With Chelsea eager to balance the books and reshape their squad, they are open to selling Nkunku for the right price.

United, seeking to strengthen their attack after a disappointing campaign and with several forwards set to depart, have contacted Nkunku’s representatives and are considering a move.

The French international is on United’s shortlist alongside other attacking targets such as Ollie Watkins.

Nkunku’s versatility is seen as a major asset. He can play across the frontline and would fit well into manager Ruben Amorim’s preferred 3-4-2-1 system, potentially operating as one of the two number 10s behind the central striker.

United have yet to submit a formal bid but are in ongoing discussions with Nkunku’s camp. However, they face competition from Bayern Munich and Arsenal, both of whom have also expressed interest in the player.

The outcome of United’s pursuit may depend on their ability to offload players and raise funds, as well as their progress in securing other attacking targets.

Chelsea, meanwhile, are keen to resolve Nkunku’s future quickly as they finalize preparations for the new season. As the transfer window heats up, Nkunku could become one of the most notable moves between Premier League giants this summer.