Manchester United

Manchester United

Premier League • England

Transfer Gossip: Christopher Nkunku opens door to Man Utd move with welcome comments; Liverpool chase second Leeds star after Raphinha

Christopher Nkunku, RB Leipzig star, sat on the bench during Bundesliga game v Borussia Mochengladbach

 

Manchester United target Christopher Nkunku admits he is open to a move this summer, Liverpool have ended their chase for a Barcelona midfielder and will instead look at a Leeds man, while Monday’s Transfer Gossip has a big update on Raphinha.

CHRISTOPHER NKUNKU GIVES MAN UTD BIG TRANSFER HOPE

Manchester United have been given a strong belief they can seal the signing of Christopher Nkunku this summer.

The United squad is likely to face a major overhaul this summer as Erik ten Hag gets to work. A number of players will certainly depart, with exits for Nemanja Matic, Paul Pogba, Jesse Lingard and Juan Mata all confirmed.

However, they surely won’t be the last with a report indicating as many as 12 players could leave the club. And it seems next in line is goalkeeper Dean Henderson with a move to a Premier League rival seemingly close.

With money a little tight at Old Trafford, Ten Hag is likely to focus on quality over quantity. But bringing in new bodies into midfield is a must and a deal for Frenkie de Jong looks to be closing in.

However, he may not be the only pricey new addition to sign for United this summer, with RB Leipzig star Nkunku also linked.

Initially a midfielder, Nkunku has been pushed into a more advanced position in 2021/22 to devastating effect. Indeed, he finished the season with 35 goals, outlining him as one of European football’s most wanted men.

And he could be just the ticket for Manchester United. Their forward line will likely lose Edinson Cavani and possibly Anthony Martial this summer.

Christopher Nkunku not ruling out Man Utd links

Now, speaking for the first time on his future, Nkunku appears to have left the door wide open over a possible move.

‘It’s no secret there are clubs that are interested in me. Yes, it’s flattering. But it’s also flattering to have a club like Leipzig doing everything to keep me,” he told TeleFoot. “Here, we will have to think carefully and make a good decision.

“The World Cup is coming to life and this is a parameter to be taken into account. Like I said, you just have to think it through.”

Nkunku wanted by PSG and Manchester United

Nkunku wanted by PSG and Manchester United

Christopher Nkunku wanted by Manchester United but PSG have massive advantage to sign RB Leipzig midfielder

Were Nkunku to sign, his profile will be exactly what United are looking for.

At 24, he is a player who can only get better. And his welcome eye for goal would provide a much-needed to a flagging United attack. After 24-goal Ronaldo, United only had one other player – Bruno Fernandes – break into double figures for the season.

LIVERPOOL DITCH GAVI PURSUIT FOR LEEDS MAN

Liverpool have ended their interest in poaching Gavi away from Barcelona, reports in Spain claim.

Gavi Barcelona March 2022

The Reds are pursuing the teenager, with his contract at the Nou Camp expiring in 12 months.

Indeed, reports claim Liverpool are looking to exploit his release clause by bringing him to Anfield.

In addition, a simmering row between his agent and Barca president Joan Laporta looks to open the door for the Reds.

However, Spanish daily Sport claims the Reds are giving up on the pursuit.

They claim to have learned that Gavi’s sole focus is on securing that renewal with Barcelona.

And knowing he has no intention of leaving, the report claims they have already switched attention to Kalvin Phillips.

The Leeds star has two years left on his deal and appears likely to leave Elland Road this summer.

Manchester City are reportedly in pole position as they go looking for Fernandinho’s replacement.

But Liverpool too are also seemingly keen as they look to freshen up an ageing midfield.

Phillips is not the only Leeds player that Liverpool are chasing this summer. They are also hot on the trail of Raphinha amid claims Sadio Mane will move on.

Leeds fans would not welcome either player moving to Anfield, but seeing both go there would be a real kick in the stomach.

BARCELONA CHIEF FLYING TO ENGLAND TO DISCUSS RAPHINHA

Raphinha transfer latest; Barcelona keen on Brazilian seen here during training at Thorp Arch

Liverpool are not the only side actively chasing Raphinha, of course, with Barcelona also very much hot on his trail.

Barcelona have been looking at the Brazilian for months and were looking to sign him for a cut-price deal were Leeds relegated.

However, having avoided the drop on a dramatic final day, Leeds have stood firm with a firm minimum fee for his services.

And while the two clubs remain some distance apart over his valuation, Barcelona remain undeterred.

As a result, the Daily Mail reports that Barcelona sporting director Mateu Alemany will fly into England this week to open talks.

They are hoping to pay no more than £35m for the winger – and could include some players to drive his price down.

The paper claims Barca will offer Leeds defender Oscar Mingueza as part of the deal.

That said, they seemingly face a tough battle to convince Leeds to sell. Liverpool’s interest in Raphinha will only likely ensure Leeds can stick to their guns over his price.

And Barcelona may either have to raise their bid or ultimately walk away, if Leeds United stand their ground.