Chelsea forward Christopher Nkunku has reportedly rejected a temporary loan move to Manchester United.
The Frenchman, who has struggled for regular game time under Enzo Maresca this season, has attracted interest from both United and Bayern Munich.
United explored Nkunku’s availability during negotiations for Alejandro Garnacho but were informed by Chelsea that the 27-year-old would cost £65 million.
Nkunku, signed for £52 million from RB Leipzig in 2023, is said to be open to joining United but only on a permanent transfer or a loan deal with a purchase obligation, according to Fabrizio Romano.
Despite the growing interest, The Athletic reports that Chelsea do not plan to let Nkunku leave before the January transfer window closes next Monday.
Bayern Munich remains another potential suitor, though any deal depends on the departure of Mathys Tel.
Chelsea has held talks with Bayern over Tel, but the 19-year-old prefers to stay in Germany despite limited starts in the Bundesliga this season.
In other developments, Chelsea is negotiating with Aston Villa for Joao Felix, who has struggled for minutes since his £46.3 million move from Atletico Madrid.
Villa, who previously tried to sign Felix last year, are also nearing a loan deal for Chelsea defender Axel Disasi. Reports suggest the French center-back has already agreed to join Unai Emery’s side.