Chelsea forward Christopher Nkunku is reportedly attracting significant interest from as many as six clubs ahead of the upcoming summer transfer window.
The talented French international is understood to be keen on departing Stamford Bridge, just two years after his £52 million move from RB Leipzig.
According to reports, London rivals Arsenal are among the potential suitors lining up a bid for Nkunku. Gunners manager Mikel Arteta is believed to see the 27-year-old as a strong candidate to bolster his attacking options.
However, Arsenal face competition from five other teams actively pursuing Nkunku`s signature. Manchester United, who made an approach for the player during the January window, are planning to renew their efforts this summer. Incoming manager Ruben Amorim is said to be a keen admirer of Nkunku and feels his experience in the Premier League would make him a valuable asset for the rebuilding process at Old Trafford.
Liverpool are also reported to be interested in Nkunku, appreciating his versatility and impressive goalscoring record from his time at Leipzig, where he found the net 58 times across his final two seasons.
Meanwhile, West Ham, who are expected to undergo a considerable squad overhaul, are reportedly contemplating an ambitious move for the player. Former Chelsea boss Graham Potter is said to have identified Nkunku as a prime target.
Interest extends beyond the Premier League, with Champions League finalists Paris Saint-Germain also among the clubs monitoring developments. PSG reportedly hold Nkunku in high regard and see him as a potentially perfect fit for the attacking style implemented by Luis Enrique.
Atletico Madrid are another club showing interest, potentially linked to uncertainty surrounding the future of forward Julian Alvarez (who has been previously linked with Liverpool). Should Alvarez depart, Nkunku is believed to be Atletico`s preferred replacement option.
Nkunku has experienced a frustrating season at Chelsea and is widely expected to push for a transfer away from the club. He has started only seven of his 22 appearances this term in the league, featuring more frequently in the Conference League and domestic cup competitions.
The player is thought to favour a move to a club competing in the Champions League, which would position Arsenal, Liverpool, Paris Saint-Germain, and Atletico Madrid as the leading contenders. Chelsea, for their part, would ideally prefer to sell Nkunku to an overseas club rather than a domestic rival, acknowledging his underlying talent despite limited playing time under Enzo Maresca and the risk of strengthening a competitor.
Marcus Bellamy