“No way” – Sky Sports reveals Man Utd can only sign 17 G/A Premier League striker on one condition

Manchester United are reportedly interested in Chelsea striker Christopher Nkunku, but they can hardly afford to sign him permanently at this stage of the season.

The Blues splashed £52 million to secure the services of the versatile French attacker in the summer of 2023. However, his first campaign at Stamford Bridge was marred by injuries, while he’s been playing second fiddle to Nicolas Jackson this term.

Nkunku has managed to amass a decent tally thus far, scoring 13 goals and providing four assists across all competitions. However, the bulk of his goal contribution has been between the Carabao Cup and Conference League, as his Premier League starting appearances have been limited.

In recent days, the Paris Saint-Germain youth product has emerged as a potential Man Utd target, as the club could do with a new attacking addition amidst the vague futures of Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho.

But according to Sky Sports journalist Dharmesh Sheth, the Red Devils won’t be able to sign the Chelsea man on a permanent basis, so their best bet would be to secure a loan deal.

“Manchester United have looked into the possibility of a deal for Christopher Nkunku, but there would only be a loan.” explained Sheth during his appearance on Transfer Talk Podcast.

“They’ve got no chance of doing a permanent deal for Nkunku. It will cost them too much money.”

How Man Utd could afford Christopher Nkunku

Nevertheless, the transfer market insider believes the situation would be different if United are open to selling Alejandro Garnacho to Chelsea.

“But clearly, if United, and it’s a big if, did business with Chelsea for [Alejandro] Garnacho, they’ll already be talking then. And it would smooth the way for Nkunku to maybe make a move on loan to Old Trafford.”

Finally, Sheth fears the Reds could be left out of the equation if Chelsea and Bayern Munich end up striking an agreement involving Nkunku and Mathys Tel, who is also a Man Utd target.

“But Nkunku is interested in Bayern Munich as well, and they maybe have a player in Mathys Tel that Chelsea could be interested in.”