Christopher Nkunku is said to be unhappy with his game time at Chelsea(Image: CameraSport via Getty Images)

Man United's transfer interest in Chelsea's Christopher Nkunku 'confirmed' as January move tipped

21 Nov 2024, 04:00 by Josh Holland · football.london

Chelsea are just days away from returning to action and Enzo Maresca's men travel to Leicester City full of confidence. The Blues are third in the Premier League after an impressive start.

Maresca's men will visit the King Power Stadium looking to continue their fine form. After back-to-back draws with Manchester United and Arsenal before the international break, the West Londoners find themselves challenging for a Champions League spot.

As has been the case at Stamford Bridge since 2022, anticipation is building ahead of the transfer window and Chelsea have been linked with a number of players already. Here, football.london takes a look at some of the latest Chelsea transfer news and gossip that has generated headlines over the last 24 hours.

Man United 'interest' confirmed

United are targeting Chelsea star Christopher Nkunku, according to the Red Devils' former chief scout. Mick Brown, who spent over a decade at Old Trafford, has been speaking to Football Insider, claiming the forward is on Ruben Amorim's list.

“From what I hear, Man United are certainly interested,” he told Football Insider. "I’m told he’s on their list of targets and one they could look to snap up either in January or the summer.

“He’s one of these modern-day players where he’s not really a striker, not really a midfielder, and not really a winger. He’s sort of a combination of all three. So when you look at Amorim’s Sporting team, the forwards are all quick and they play off the back of defenders and put them under pressure.

“Nkunku strikes me as the sort of player who would fit into that perfectly. He’s also more than good enough to play every week at this level."

football.london says: "News that Nkunku is growing unhappy with his game time at Chelsea is hardly surprising. Having been the main man at RB Leipzig, he has suffered with injuries and good form from Nicolas Jackson has meant he has been second choice. A move to United, though, isn't it.

"Amorim already has Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee at his disposal, with just one slot free. A move to a team not desperate for a new striker won't solve his need for minutes."

January exit likely for wonderkid

Cesare Casadei is yet to live up to expectations at Chelsea since his move from Inter. After being recalled from his loan spell at Leicester City last term, the 21-year-old has been largely used as a bench filler.

Now, according to Tuttomercatoweb, Monza, Real Betis and PSV Eindhoven are all keeping tabs on his services ahead of January. The report claims that Feyenoord have also joined the race.

A loan move is likely for the Italian with the potential for a permanent exit in the future.

football.london says: "Casadei impressed at Leicester, but that was in the Championship. Despite performing well under Maresca last season, the Italian has not been given the chance in West London with better players available.

"Moving on in January is the best possible route for the midfielder. Chelsea will be desperate to avoid making a loss on him, so an successful loan spell could ensure they get the best deal in the summer."

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