Nkunku in action for Chelsea at the Club World Cup 2025 - wanted by Bayern and Inter

Chelsea boss Maresca drops hint over Nkunku exit amid Man Utd swap rumours

Adem Ozcan Last updated: Jun 25, 2025, 8:39 am
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Image: IMAGO / Eibner

Chelsea Christopher Nkunku Manchester United links are gathering momentum — and Enzo Maresca’s latest comments will only fuel the fire. The Blues head coach has refused to guarantee the Frenchman will remain at Stamford Bridge beyond the summer window, following fresh reports of a potential swap deal involving Manchester United’s Alejandro Garnacho.

Nkunku, who joined Chelsea in 2023 for £52m, has struggled for fitness and form, starting just nine Premier League games last season. Now, with Liam Delap staking his claim in the XI and new forward targets being pursued, his future looks uncertain.

United Keen as Chelsea Weigh Options

While Manchester United are reportedly prioritising other attackers such as Bryan Mbeumo, Viktor Gyokeres and Hugo Ekitike, a potential swap involving Nkunku and Garnacho has not been ruled out. Garnacho is believed to be open to a Chelsea move, and Nkunku — despite featuring in the full 90 minutes of Chelsea’s Club World Cup win — is far from guaranteed a role under Maresca.

“If Christo is here with us, it’s because we think he can help us… but anything can happen when the transfer window is open,” said Maresca. — Enzo Maresca

Delap Emerges as New Focal Point

In the same game that Nkunku started, Liam Delap scored his first Chelsea goal and impressed as the central striker — adding further pressure to Nkunku’s standing in the squad.

Maresca praised the energy and directness Delap brings to the forward line, which may further push Nkunku into the periphery as Chelsea prepare for a reshaped front three.

Christopher Nkunku at Chelsea (since July 2023)

Category Total
Appearances 57
Goals 17
Assists 5

Appearances, goals and assists include all competitions up to June 2025

  • Chelsea Christopher Nkunku Manchester United links intensify
  • Garnacho swap deal being explored
  • Maresca refuses to confirm Nkunku’s future
  • Nkunku overshadowed by Delap in Club World Cup

What’s Next?

Chelsea will continue reshaping their attack with key decisions expected before pre-season. Nkunku’s situation is likely to remain fluid, especially if Garnacho or a top target becomes available.


Would you swap Nkunku for Garnacho?

1 Comment (last comment by Adem)

First read message

Adem Ozcan

By Adem 25 Jun 2025 08:41

Swap him for Garnacho but dont pay extra.

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