This summer, INEOS are expected to be highly active in the transfer window as they look to equip head coach Ruben Amorim with the squad necessary to implement his vision at Manchester United.
United’s struggles under Amorim have primarily been attributed to the fact that some of his current players do not suit his tactical approach.
With a squad overhaul on the horizon, impactful signings are anticipated.
One such potential signing is Chelsea’s Christopher Nkunku.
The Frenchman has struggled to reach the heights expected of him at Stamford Bridge, with injuries and limited game time (just seven league starts this season) preventing him from replicating his stellar 2021-22 form.
During that campaign at RB Leipzig, Nkunku recorded an impressive 20 goals and 13 assists in 34 Bundesliga appearances.
In the winter transfer window, The Peoples Person reported that United were keen on securing Nkunku on loan, but the player was unwilling to leave Chelsea on a temporary deal as he wanted a permanent solution.
According to the report quoting Fabrizio Romano, only a permanent transfer in the region of £65 million would have sealed the deal.
United could not meet that valuation then, but could they now afford to enter a transfer race for his signature?
Nkunku transfer race heating up
According to The Sun, Nkunku is eager to leave Chelsea this summer, prioritising a move to a club that can offer UEFA Champions League football.
As per the report, Arsenal, Atletico Madrid, Liverpool, Paris Saint-Germain, and Manchester United are all interested in rescuing him from his frustrations at Stamford Bridge.
It’s a fierce transfer battle, and United could significantly boost their chances by winning the UEFA Europa League on Wednesday, securing their place in next season’s Champions League.
With Champions League football guaranteed, INEOS would be in a stronger position to approach the former RB Leipzig star over a move to Old Trafford.
At United, Nkunku is seen as an ideal fit for Amorim’s tactical system, with the Portuguese coach reportedly a huge admirer of his abilities.
On their part, Chelsea would, as per The Sun, be open to selling him two years after signing him for £52 million.
However, they prefer not to offload him to a Premier League rival.
Mohamed Salah and Kevin De Bruyne struggled at Chelsea before flourishing as stars elsewhere.
Now, with Nkunku eager to leave, the Blues may fear history repeating itself, but can they really prevent it?
Feature image Julian Finney via Getty Images
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Daniel Onguko
Since Dan was introduced to Manchester United in 2008, he has lived and breathed the club. What started as being a fan evolved into writing about United, allowing him to feel part of their journey. Hopefully, his work might even help rekindle your love for the kings of Manchester.
