Chris Sutton has predicted that Chelsea may sell Christopher Nkunku, the £52m summer 2023 signing, before the January transfer window closes. Nkunku joined the Blues after a stellar stint in Germany, where he scored 58 goals in his final two seasons at RB Leipzig, won the Bundesliga Player of the Season award in 2022, and became the league’s joint top scorer the following year.
However, his time at Chelsea has been hampered by injuries. In his debut season, he made just 14 appearances across all competitions. This term, despite returning to full fitness, Nkunku has struggled for regular minutes.
Under manager Enzo Maresca, the 27-year-old has started only three Premier League matches, though he has excelled in cup competitions, netting 10 goals in nine games.
Former Premier League striker Chris Sutton has doubts about Nkunku’s future at Stamford Bridge. “I can see Christopher Nkunku leaving,” Sutton told NewBettingSites.
“He’s not getting regular game-time, and Maresca doesn’t seem to see him as a key player. Chelsea needs more than just talent to compete for the Premier League title.”
Nkunku’s role at Chelsea has also been questioned by ex-defender Jason Cundy. Speaking to talkSPORT, Cundy expressed uncertainty over where Nkunku fits in Maresca’s system.
“He’s caught between positions. He’s not a number nine, and he doesn’t fully fit as a number ten. There’s no clear role for him in this team,” Cundy remarked.
Reports suggest that Nkunku’s representatives have approached Barcelona, raising the possibility of a shock move to the Nou Camp. With game-time limited and doubts about his fit in Chelsea’s system, a January departure might be on the horizon for the French forward.