'It wouldn't surprise me' - Chelsea tipped to make bold decision on £52m forward amid Man Utd interest

Chelsea forward Christopher Nkunku could be on the move in January, with reports suggesting he’s unhappy with his lack of game time under Enzo Maresca at Stamford Bridge.

The attacker has only started one of 12 Premier League matches and has been more of a mainstay in the Europa Conference League and Carabao Cup. Nkunku has made 11 appearances in the league, scoring just one goal.

Rumours began to circulate suggesting that Manchester United were interested in signing the 27-year-old, which may become more likely if Nkunku remains unhappy at Stamford Bridge. Former United scout Mick Brown believes that the French international could force his way out of Chelsea if things don’t change.

He told Football Insider: “You’ve got players who are playing in Europe and in cup games who, realistically, should be playing every week in the Premier League. And out of those players, I can confidently say most would want to be playing every week.

“So, I could see him wanting to leave and it wouldn’t surprise me if he [Nkunku] pushed for it. Whether that happens in January or at the end of the season it remains to be seen. One thing he might do is, he could go to the manager to demand more playing time, but if he doesn’t get it, then he’ll look to move elsewhere.

“Because he’s not happy, he wants to play regular Premier League football from the start, he’s not happy just coming off the bench.“

Nkunku attracted Manchester United interest

Reports linking the striker to a move to Old Trafford have been widespread. Chelsea paid £52m for Nkunku in 2023, signing the forward to a six-year contract.

However, if he wants to leave, United could come in with a similar offer fee-wise and it could be enough to tempt Chelsea to let Nkunku leave, especially if he wishes to leave

United are in need of a striker as they are the fourth-lowest scoring team in the Premier League, and Nkunku could help solve their problems. His form in the Europa Conference League has been impressive, as he has six goals in five games so far this season, but it has not been enough to get him game time over Nicolas Jackson in the Premier League.