Manchester United is reportedly planning a bid for Chelsea forward Christopher Nkunku as they look to improve their goal-scoring under new manager Ruben Amorim. Following Erik ten Hag’s dismissal in October due to a poor start to the season—managing only four wins in the first 11 league games—Amorim has been brought in as his successor. He will officially take on the role after coaching his final match for Sporting Lisbon against Braga.
United currently sits in 13th place in the Premier League with one of the lowest goal tallies, highlighting the pressing need for offensive reinforcements. Amorim aims to rejuvenate the team’s attack, with potential player additions under discussion for upcoming transfer windows.
Though Sporting Lisbon’s striker Viktor Gyökeres was previously linked with a move to United, budget constraints may postpone any serious pursuit. However, a recent report from L’Equipe (via the Daily Mail) indicates United could instead pursue Nkunku, who is reportedly dissatisfied at Chelsea due to limited playing time under manager Enzo Maresca.
Despite high expectations upon joining Chelsea, Nkunku has made just one Premier League start and has mostly appeared in Europa Conference League matches, which has reportedly fueled his frustration. United’s management is eager to provide Amorim with the resources he needs to strengthen the squad, and Nkunku, keen for more regular starts, could be an ideal candidate for the January transfer window.
United’s final game under interim manager Ruud van Nistelrooy ended with a 3-0 victory over Leicester, featuring goals from Bruno Fernandes, Alejandro Garnacho, and an own goal by Victor Kristiansen. Netherlands international Matthijs de Ligt praised the team’s determination and cohesion, emphasizing their potential to improve under Amorim with a boost in attacking options.
This reported interest in Nkunku signals Amorim’s intent to reinforce Manchester United’s offensive capabilities after a difficult start to the season. United’s shift toward Nkunku, who is seen as a versatile, creative forward, could provide an immediate impact. With financial limitations affecting their pursuit of other targets like Gyökeres, the Chelsea forward may be an ideal fit for Amorim’s plans.
The team’s recent win under van Nistelrooy, with standout performances from Fernandes and Garnacho, showed encouraging signs of progress. Defender Matthijs de Ligt’s positive comments on the squad’s unity and resilience have fueled optimism that, with additional attacking talent, United could start climbing the league standings as Amorim works to reshape the squad.
