Manchester United Told to Pay £35m for Chelsea’s Christopher Nkunku as Garnacho Swap Deal Looms
By Okafor Joseph Afam | Published July 5, 2025
Manchester United have reportedly been informed that they must pay £35 million if they want to sign Chelsea forward Christopher Nkunku during the current summer transfer window.
Nkunku, 27, joined Chelsea from RB Leipzig in 2023 and has made 60 appearances for the Blues, scoring 18 goals and providing five assists. Despite a decent run, his Premier League performance last season saw him net only three goals in the league, raising questions about his long-term future at Stamford Bridge.
According to The Mirror, Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca does not see Nkunku in his plans for the 2025/26 campaign. With the club recently signing attackers Joao Pedro and Jamie Gittens, the Blues are open to offloading Nkunku — but only for a fee of at least £35 million.
Manchester United have reignited their interest in the French international, having previously tracked him before his move to Chelsea. However, questions remain about whether Nkunku fits United’s current transfer needs, as the Red Devils are prioritizing a centre-forward. With Matheus Cunha already signed and Bryan Mbeumo’s move from Brentford nearing completion, United appear well stocked in attacking midfield roles, which is Nkunku’s primary position.
Meanwhile, a potential swap deal is gaining traction, with Chelsea reportedly still interested in Manchester United winger Alejandro Garnacho. The Argentine forward has been linked with a move away from Old Trafford and could be used as part of a deal to bring Nkunku to United.
Garnacho, 21, has attracted interest from several Premier League clubs, including Aston Villa. He has scored 26 goals and delivered 22 assists in 144 appearances for the Red Devils and is said to be open to staying in the English top flight.
While no formal offer has been made, a Garnacho-Nkunku swap deal could benefit both clubs, balancing squad needs and valuation. Negotiations are expected to intensify as the transfer window progresses.
Ask ChatGPT
