Ruben Amorim’s Manchester United project may have just begun, but the manager has already been advised to explore a bold transfer move for Chelsea forward Christopher Nkunku.
The Frenchman, who joined Chelsea for £52 million from RB Leipzig in 2023, has found game time hard to come by at Stamford Bridge, sparking rumors of potential discontent.
Amorim’s tenure at Old Trafford kicked off with a 1-1 draw against Ipswich Town, a result emblematic of the struggles the Portuguese manager has inherited.
While Marcus Rashford’s early goal promised a bright start, a deflected equalizer from Omari Hutchinson ensured a frustrating afternoon.
The draw leaves Manchester United 12th in the Premier League, and Amorim has openly admitted the road ahead will be difficult as he implements a new playing style.
“We are going to suffer for a long period,” Amorim said post-match.
Christopher Nkunku has endured a stop-start spell at Chelsea since his high-profile move. The forward missed much of last season due to injuries and has faced limited opportunities this term, starting just one Premier League game.
Reports suggest the 27-year-old is growing frustrated with his lack of playing time, particularly with the arrival of Brazilian wonderkid Estevao Willian on the horizon.
Former Premier League star Emmanuel Petit has tipped Nkunku as a perfect fit for Amorim’s Manchester United, praising the player’s intelligence and versatility. Speaking to Casino Hawks, Petit said:
“Ruben Amorim has a clear philosophy and knows exactly what he wants from his players. Christopher Nkunku is one of those.
“In terms of how he links up with strikers and wingers, he could have a big impact at Old Trafford if Chelsea decide to sell.”
Petit also suggested that Nkunku’s lack of prominence at Chelsea stems from the club’s plans for Estevao Willian, who will join the team next summer after breaking Neymar’s youth records in Brazil.
“Nkunku isn’t being prioritized at Chelsea because of who is coming in to play in that position. Estevao Willian is only 17 but has so much quality.”
Amorim’s United have already shown they lack cohesion and firepower, issues Nkunku’s skill set could help resolve. The Frenchman’s ability to create and link up with attackers could provide a much-needed boost to a team that has often relied on moments of individual brilliance.
While Amorim focuses on rebuilding confidence and adjusting the squad to his philosophy, the January transfer window could present an opportunity to bolster his team.
Whether Chelsea would be willing to part with Nkunku remains to be seen, but with limited playing time at Stamford Bridge, the forward could be tempted by a fresh start.
Amorim’s willingness to pursue ambitious targets like Nkunku could define the next phase of his project at Old Trafford. For now, though, the focus will remain on lifting the team from their current struggles as they prepare for their next Premier League challenge.