PSG's secret weapon in transfer race to beat Man Utd to Chelsea star

Suraj Radia

• 1 Dec 2024 09:30 GMT
• 3 min read

Paris Saint-Germain could line up a swap deal with Chelsea in order to beat Manchester United in the race to sign Christopher Nkunku in January.

Nkunku is Chelsea’s top scorer in all compeitions this season but just one of his 11 goals have come in the Premier League, having only started a single game in the competition under Enzo Maresca.

The 27-year-old is believed to be frustrated by his game time and could push for an exit in January despite Maresca insisting he wants to keep hold of his leading marksman.

READ MORE: Chelsea top scorers 2024/25

United are thought to be considering Nkunku as an option but PSG are also said to be showing an interest in bringing their former academy graduate back to the club this winter.

According to TBR Football, PSG have ‘floated’ the idea to Chelsea that they would be willing to include Randal Kolo Muani in a deal for Nkunku, with the 25-year-old considered surplus to requirements.

Chelsea are understood to appreciate Kolo Muani but they are not anticipated to pursue talks at this point and do not expect Nkunku to leave despite the club being open to any ‘serious’ offers.

Chelsea relaxed over striker search after Jackson form

Chelsea are still considering strengthening their front line which would likely see Nkunku depart, however a move may not be on the agenda until next summer.

The likes of Victor Osimhen and Liam Delap are thought to be on Chelsea’s shortlist but the form of Nicolas Jackson this season has led to the club not feeling an immediate need to sign a striker.

Compared

Christopher Nkunku

AM, F, M (C)

Chelsea

Christopher Nkunku

AM, F, M (C)

Chelsea

VS

Randal Kolo Muani

F (C)

PSG

Randal Kolo Muani

F (C)

PSG

2024/2025

Season Statistics

2024/2025

23	Appearances	18
12	Goals	5
974	Minutes Played	852
1	Assists	2
39	Shots Total	30

Kolo Muani would be a less likely option but PSG’s desire to cash in on the Frenchman after just 18 months at the club could make a deal cost-effective, with United also monitoring the situation.

Kolo Muani only joined PSG last summer but the striker has made just two starts in Ligue 1 this season, having scored eight times since his €95 million transfer from Frankfurt.