‘Christopher Nkunku wants Barcelona move after approach made at Chelsea’
Christopher Nkunku is keen on a move to Barcelona after their enquiry at Chelsea for an alternative to Luis Diaz and Marcus Rashford.
The Frenchman has endured a difficult spell in West London since making the move from RB Leipzig in 2023 for £52million [Sky Sports].
Nkunku’s versatility and creativity were viewed as being the key to unlock Chelsea’s attacking potential, but the former PSG forward’s arrival also coincided with Cole Palmer moving to Stamford Bridge.
The ex-Man City man quickly became the first-choice number 10 and has become one of the Premier League’s best players, forcing the 27-year-old to be used out of position and more often than not, as an impact player from the bench.
As a consequence, Nkunku has been linked with a move away from Chelsea and according to The Athletic, Barcelona are now interested in the France international.
Barcelona eye Nkunku as Rashford, Diaz alternative
Barcelona find themselves in a difficult financial position once again this summer, and their situation has not been helped by the €15m fine received from UEFA [ESPN] for failing to comply with the governing body’s financial regulations.
Finding a new left-winger is seen as a priority as Hansi Flick is limited to having only Raphinha and Ferran Torres at his disposal in that position,
The Brazilian is more natural on the right, whilst Torres looks set to depart the Camp Nou this summer with Aston Villa interested, Mick Brown told Football Insider exclusively.
According to the report, Barcelona have asked about Nkunku’s “availability” this winder, as they see the French forward as an option if they fail to complete deals for either Liverpool’s Diaz or Man United’s Rashford.
The 27-year-old is “keen” on the move, but Chelsea are unwilling to do anything other than a permanent deal.
Nkunku garnering interest from European giants
Football Insider Verdict
Despite the difficulties endured during his time at Stamford Bridge, the 27-year-old remains a highly-regarded player in European circles.
Given that Torres looks likely to be on his way out this summer, Nkunku would have a good chance of nailing down a starting spot, either on the left or in behind Robert Lewandoski.
However, if Barcelona are unable to find the finances to do a deal, a move back to Germany remains a possibility.
Nkunku is a target for Bayern Munich in a move that makes a lot of sense for all parties involved.
The Frenchman thrived at Leipzig and was voted as the Bundesliga’s player of the season in the 2021/22 season.
What’s more, thanks to Jamal Musiala’s horrific injury and the departure of Leroy Sane and Thomas Muller, the Bavarian giants are light on attacking options, once again giving Nkunku a clear shot of becoming a regular starter.