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Arsenal Eye Summer Move for Christopher Nkunku
Arsenal are reportedly preparing to revive their pursuit of Chelsea forward Christopher Nkunku this summer transfer window. The sought-after Nkunku may seek a departure from Stamford Bridge at the season’s end, making a switch across London a potential option. Teams are expected to be lining up for the Chelsea forward.
The French international arrived at Chelsea from RB Leipzig in 2023 for £52 million but faced an early setback with a long-term injury. Since then, he has struggled to firmly establish his role in the team. Despite being a joint-top scorer for the Blues this season with 14 goals across all competitions, manager Enzo Maresca frequently deploys him on the flank, away from his preferred central attacking position. Further complicating matters, he often begins matches on the bench.
Nkunku Considering Chelsea Exit
According to RMC Sport, Nkunku is increasingly contemplating a departure from Chelsea this summer, attracting interest from several major European clubs. A transfer for Nkunku would make waves across the Premiere League.
Past Interest and Future Possibilities
- The 27-year-old was linked with a move away during the January transfer window, with Manchester United reportedly interested in bolstering their attacking options.
- Arsenal were also reportedly in contention as Mikel Arteta navigated an injury crisis in his attacking lineup, hindering the Gunners’ Premier League title aspirations.
Reports suggest that Arsenal are poised to join Bayern Munich in expressing renewed interest this summer, with Nkunku prioritizing a club that participates in the Champions League.
Leboeuf Urges Chelsea to Cut Ties
Former Chelsea defender Frank Leboeuf has advised the club to part ways with Nkunku in the coming months, asserting that the high-profile transfer has not been successful.
He stated, “I think they need to cut their losses and go their separate ways. It’s best for the club but also the future of the player. Careers are pretty short so you have to react quickly if it doesn’t work.”
“And it can happen like this; sometimes, the chemistry doesn’t work. I was very happy to see him come to Chelsea, but it’s never worked.”
“He’s never been able to settle down, maybe because the position he’s been offered wasn’t the right one.”
“It’s never worked for him, but he’s still a good player. He will have to rebound, but we’ve seen that before with players like Kevin De Bruyne and Mohamed Salah when they left.”
Uncertainty Surrounds Nkunku’s Future
Nkunku’s future at Chelsea has become increasingly uncertain amid reports that Maresca is planning to bolster his attacking options further in the upcoming transfer market.
The Blues are reportedly planning to acquire a winger and a striker as part of their summer recruitment efforts. This increased competition for places may diminish Nkunku’s playing time even further, potentially hastening his departure. The addition of another Chelsea forward in this transfer window is a talking point around the league.