Manchester United interested in signing Chelsea attacker as Ruben Amorim first signing in January

Manchester United are interested in a sensational January transfer move for Chelsea attacker Christopher Nkunku in a deal that could cause a major shake-up to the Old Trafford club.

Although Blues boss Enzo Maresca once referred to the France international as his “best player”, Nkunku has grown increasingly peripheral at Stamford Bridge, leaving United to believe that there is a possibility of adding him to Ruben Amorim’s squad in just a matter of weeks.

There’s a lot to like about the deal from the perspective of United. He is, after all, an Amorim-type player.

Nkunku has the profile of a forward ideal for Amorim’s football. He’s an adept dribbler and capable of playing as one of the two inside forwards in what is likely to be a new 3-4-3 system at Old Trafford. As Chelsea’s top scorer this season, he also provides the type of firepower that the Red Devils have lacked this season.

At 26, he carries with him some top-level experience yet he’s still to peak. But while this is a transfer that can clearly elevate Man Utd, it spells the beginning of the end for at least one of two players.

While Chelsea are unlikely to readily sell Nkunku, particularly to a rival club, the very fact that he is being discussed – and the fact there is the possibility of a deal – suggests that the clock is already ticking for Rashford and Zirkzee.