Is This the End for Nkunku at Chelsea?

Chelsea’s patience with Christopher Nkunku appears to be wearing thin. New manager Enzo Maresca has publicly left the door open for the French forward to leave in the 2025 summer transfer window, signaling that the club is evaluating his future after an underwhelming two-year spell.

Nkunku, who was signed from RB Leipzig for £52 million in 2023, has struggled to find his best form at Stamford Bridge. A combination of persistent injuries and tactical misfits has kept him from securing a regular spot in the starting XI.

Speaking to the Daily Mirror, Maresca hinted that Nkunku’s situation remains uncertain.

"If Christo is here with us, it’s because he can help the team. Maybe he’ll stay for next season. But if something happens, we don’t know. The transfer window is open—anything can happen, not just with Christo, but with other players too," said Maresca.

Chelsea’s Frontline Getting Crowded

Competition for places up front is intense at Chelsea. Liam Delap, who has impressed during the FIFA Club World Cup, is emerging as a strong option, especially after scoring a stunning goal in Chelsea’s 3-0 win over ES Tunis. Nicolas Jackson has also stepped up his performances recently.

With the rise of Delap and Jackson, Nkunku is now likely to become the third-choice forward, making his path back into the starting XI even more difficult.

Manchester United Waiting in the Wings

A potential escape route for Nkunku lies in Manchester United. The Red Devils have long admired the versatile 27-year-old and are currently in desperate need of a consistent goal-scorer.

Both Rasmus Højlund and new arrival Joshua Zirkzee have failed to deliver consistently, forcing United to widen their search for a reliable No. 9. Though the club had shown interest in Viktor Gyökeres, that pursuit seems doomed, with Gyökeres reportedly favoring a move to Arsenal instead.

United have yet to decide on their main striker target, but Nkunku—who can play across the front line and brings Premier League experience—could be an ideal fit.

What’s Next for Nkunku?

As the transfer window heats up, Nkunku’s future remains one of the many questions at Stamford Bridge. With Chelsea looking to reshape their squad under Maresca and United still uncertain in attack, the Frenchman's next move could be one of the most intriguing subplots of the summer.