Chelsea Manager Offers Transfer Update on £52M-Rated Barcelona, PSG Target | OneFootball

Christopher Nkunku is reportedly drawing interest from other top European clubs as speculation grows that his time at Chelsea may soon end. Nonetheless, the club’s manager broke his silence about the rumors involving the attacker.

Graeme Bailey of TBR Football claims Nkunku could leave Stamford Bridge in January after struggling to secure a regular spot in the first team. His representatives are reportedly exploring potential options for the French forward.

While Nkunku is determined to fight for his place, it’s clear he’s not a key figure under manager Enzo Maresca. The 27-year-old started Chelsea’s season opener against Manchester City but has only featured in one other Premier League match since, a start against Southampton.

Enzo Maresca comments on Christopher Nkunku exit rumors

Shaun Botterill/Getty Images

Maresca has made it clear that he wants to keep forward Christopher Nkunku at Stamford Bridge despite rumors of a potential transfer in the upcoming window.

“We like Christo and we want him here,” Maresca said (h/t GOAL). “There will always be players that are not happy and some that will ask to leave in January. I am not sure if they will be Christo’s or another player’s case. We want to keep them here because we are happy with them here.”

Catalan outlet Sport has reported that Pini Zahavi, the agent of FC Barcelona’s Hansi Flick and Robert Lewandowski, has offered Nkunku to the Spanish club.

Nkunku joined Chelsea last season, but a serious injury delayed his debut, and he hasn’t been able to replicate the form that led the Blues to pay £52 million for him just 18 months ago.