Chelsea can reignite transfer interest as Man Utd open door to stunning move

Chelsea could reignite their interest in Victor Osimhen in January with Christopher Nukunku’s club future currently up in the air. The Frenchman was again confined to the bench in his side’s 1-1 draw with Arsenal on Sunday, only coming on in the 88th minute.

The striker has now not started a Premier League match since August 18, when the Blues were beaten 2-0 by Manchester City.

With manager Enzo Maresca seemingly preferring Nicolas Jackson in the lone striker role, Nkunku has since made eight appearances as a substitute, but only played a cumulative total of 154 minutes in the top flight this season.

It follows a summer where Chelsea were continuously linked with Napoli man Osimhen, but a move never materialised. With the two clubs unable to negotiate a fee, the Nigerian instead headed to Galatasaray on loan, but the Serie A side are said to be open to still selling him on a permanent deal in January.

And according to French outlet L’Equipe, the 26-year-old could now make a shock move to Manchester United. The Red Devils are reportedly monitoring Nkunku’s situation, and are keen to add firepower having struggled for goals this season.

Nkunku himself is also said to be frustrated at the situation. Following his £52million move from RB Leipzig last year, his first season in English football was plagued by injury issues, and he managed just 14 appearances in all competitions. 

The forward is contracted at Stamford Bridge until 2029. And while Chelsea would undoubtedly want to see a large portion of the sum they paid reimbursed, a sale would also help their ambitions to land Osimhen.

The 25-year-old is currently excelling in Turkey, having scored eight times in nine club games so far. And despite his release clause being around the £75million mark, Napoli will almost certainly have to consider lower offers if they are to get the star of their books.

And while Chelsea were dropping points at Stamford Bridge on Sunday, Osimhen was reminding potential suitors about his ability. He scored twice as Galatasaray beat Samsunspor 3-2, taking them five points clear at the top of the table.

After the game, he refused to indulge in speculation over his future. Denying he was thinking about a January move, Osimhen insisted he was currently satisfied with his temporary move.

“I am very happy here,” he said. “The fans are showing great love. They were extraordinary today as well. I want to dedicate today’s victory to them as well. I thank them very much.”