PL rivals desperate to thwart United’s attempts at sensational mid-season approach for free-scoring forward – report

Despite their recent impressive results under interim manager Ruud van Nistelrooy, Manchester United’s struggles in front of goal this season have been apparent to all those who have noticed.

The Red Devils are only the 16th top scorers in the Premier League with their two strikers contributing only two goals to the cause.

Rasmus Hojlund has two strikes to his name in all competitions while summer signing Joshua Zirkzee has netted only once. And new head coach Ruben Amorim has a huge job on his hands to try and get the duo to start firing.

The Portuguese is already contemplating using Marcus Rashford up front instead of the aforementioned duo while the rumour mill continues to link the Old Trafford side with a move for Amorim’s Sporting Lisbon protege, Viktor Gyokeres.

Goals needed

A January move has been ruled out by the ex-Sporting boss himself and as per reports relayed by The Peoples Person, Christopher Nkunku of Chelsea has emerged as a sensational option.

The Frenchman, who is the Blues’ top-scorer this season with 10 goals, is unhappy with his lack of minutes in the English top-flight and is considering his future.

Despite his impressive goalscoring record, the 26-year-old has managed only one start in the league and has seen a total of 154 minutes of action with Enzo Maresca preferring Nicolas Jackson instead.

The France international is open to switching to the red half of Manchester with the London side asking for £52 million to part ways with the former RB Leipzig star.

However, as per Football Insider, Chelsea have had a change of heart and are reluctant to let go of the attacker owing to his brilliant form in front of goal.

Chelsea are still in three competitions and Nkunku’s European form has really aided their Conference League ambitions and Maresca knows the importance of maintaining a competitive squad.

Chelsea won’t sell Nkunku

“Chelsea are reluctant to allow Christopher Nkunku to move on amid reported interest from Man United, sources have told Football Insider.

“Nicolas Jackson is the undisputed first-choice striker for Enzo Maresca. However, Nkunku is just one injury away from starting for Chelsea and has been in good scoring form in his appearances under the Italian boss.

“Maresca has been clear that he wants to keep his squad together after huge change during the most recent summer window.”

Hopefully, Amorim can get Hojlund and Zirkzee firing or else United will have to find a brand-new target for the winter window.

Feature image Mike Hewitt via Getty Images