Christopher Nkunku's future has been the subject of widespread speculation throughout the January transfer window, and as the deadline approaches, the question remains as to where his next chapter lies.
The Frenchman has struggled to make the desired impact since joining Chelsea from RB Leipzig for a fee in the region of €60m (£50m) in the summer of 2023, suffering an injury-plagued first season before falling down the pecking order under Enzo Maresca.
Nkunku has played just 443 minutes of Premier League football in 19 appearances, only three of which were from the start, but his performances in Europe, netting seven in seven Conference League games, has kept interest in the forward high.
Manchester United are reportedly leading the race among Europe's elites to secure Nkunku's signature, but his potential destination remains unknown as the deadline day clock ticks towards its end.
Manchester United, Bayern Munich, Paris Saint-Germain: Where could Nkunku end up?
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Man United's interest has been reported throughout the winter window, with the Red Devils reportedly having asked to be kept informed about Nkunku's situation, particularly as Marcus Rashford's move away from the club looks increasingly likely and Alejandro Garnacho's future remains uncertain.
With recent developments suggesting that Man Utd's move for Mathys Tel has collapsed, the Red Devils are expected to intensify their interest in Nkunku as the deadline approaches, and the French forward, according to Fabrizio Romano, has indicated he would be willing to join, but only on a permanent transfer or a loan with an obligation to buy.
However, Ruben Amorim's side may face stiff competition from several elite clubs across Europe, with Nkunku linked to both Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain throughout the window.
Chelsea have supposedly made contact with Bayern Munich about Tel, with an exchange deal a potential outcome, while PSG are said to be interested in bringing Nkunku, who was with the French champions from 2010 to 2019, back to the Parc des Princes, though they are likely to wait until the summer window.
There have also been speculative reports suggesting interest from Juventus, with the Blues said to be exploring a possible transfer for Dusan Vlahovic, with Nkunku heading in the opposite direction.
Is there a future for Nkunku at Stamford Bridge?
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While both parties appear to be looking for alternate options as the deadline draws nearer, there is a conceivable scenario where no moves materialise, keeping Nkunku at Stamford Bridge.
In that case, the forward would likely continue deputising for Nicolas Jackson in the Premier League, having played just 29 minutes in Chelsea's four league outings since the turn of the year, but the Frenchman will certainly desire a consistent starting place as he enters his prime years.
However, with Maresca's side consistently linked with other strikers across Europe, including the likes of Victor Osimhen and Viktor Gyokeres, Nkunku's future looks increasingly likely to reside away from the Blues.
Ellis Stevens
