Arsenal are reportedly planning a surprise move for Chelsea forward Christopher Nkunku this summer, according to recent reports.
Nkunku, who has struggled to secure a regular spot in Enzo Maresca’s starting lineup, is expected to consider his options at the end of the season.
While he has been a consistent feature in the Conference League, Nkunku has made only nine Premier League starts, despite Chelsea’s striker, Nicolas Jackson, spending several weeks sidelined due to injury.
According to RMC Sport, one potential destination for Nkunku could be Arsenal.
The Gunners are said to have been interested in the Frenchman during the January transfer window and will reportedly revive their pursuit once the season concludes.
Arsenal are actively seeking a new striker this summer and are believed to be focusing on Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres and RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko.
However, Nkunku could provide a versatile alternative, given his ability to play both as a forward and on the left wing – an area where Arsenal are also looking to strengthen.
Bayern Munich are expected to provide competition for Nkunku’s signature.
The Bundesliga giants were linked with a move for the 25-year-old in January, and while Nkunku was reportedly eager to make the move, Chelsea’s £70million asking price made it unfeasible.
Christian Falk now reports that Nkunku remains hopeful of a switch to Bayern, but the club’s current financial priorities could be an obstacle.
Bayern are currently focused on securing a move for Bayer Leverkusen’s Florian Wirtz, who is expected to cost in excess of £100million.
For Bayern to finance a move for Nkunku, they would need to sell Mathys Tel permanently.
The French forward joined Tottenham Hotspur on a six-month loan in January, and Spurs hold the option to make the deal permanent for just over £50million.
However, reports on whether Tottenham will trigger that option are mixed.
Chelsea are not believed to be in a hurry to part ways with Nkunku, but could consider offers for the frustrated forward as they look to reshape their own attacking line.
One potential replacement for Nkunku could be Ipswich Town’s Liam Delap, with the Blues reportedly interested in the young striker.
Delap’s release clause of £30million is expected to become active if Ipswich are relegated to the Championship, which currently looks likely.
The sale of Nkunku would likely fund any move for Delap, making it a financially viable option for Chelsea.
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