Arsenal Have ‘Joined the Race’ to Sign £52m Chelsea Forward in Shock Move – Report | OneFootball

Arsenal Set Sights on Chelsea’s Forgotten Star Christopher Nkunku

Arsenal are reportedly weighing up a move for Chelsea forward Christopher Nkunku this summer, according to TEAMtalk. The Gunners are keen to bolster their attacking options, and Mikel Arteta sees Nkunku as a player who could add another dimension to his frontline.

The French international, who moved to Stamford Bridge for £52m in 2023, has struggled for consistent game time at Chelsea, starting just nine Premier League matches this season. Despite his limited minutes, his pedigree remains undeniable, and Arsenal are now seriously considering a swoop.

Nkunku’s Chelsea Struggles Offer Opportunity

Nkunku’s brief stint in west London has not gone to plan. After a prolific spell at RB Leipzig — where he netted 70 goals in 172 appearances — expectations were high. However, persistent injuries and fierce competition for places have hampered his progress under multiple Chelsea managers.

Photo: IMAGO

As TEAMtalk revealed, “Nkunku could’ve left Chelsea in January as he was generating interest but the Blues chose to hold onto him.” Chelsea’s decision to retain the attacker could now backfire, with suitors sensing a bargain in the upcoming window. Sources have indicated he could be available for as little as £40m — a fee considered excellent value given his proven quality.

Arsenal, ever diligent in the transfer market, appear poised to capitalise.

Arsenal’s Attacking Ambitions Clear

Mikel Arteta has made no secret of his desire to add more firepower this summer. TEAMtalk confirms that Arsenal are “working hard on striker targets,” including conversations with Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres and RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko.

Their ultimate ambition remains Newcastle’s Alexander Isak, but his hefty asking price has made that deal unlikely. Instead, a move for Nkunku — potentially alongside another forward — could provide both depth and flexibility without the financial risk.

Photo IMAGO

As TEAMtalk report, “Nkunku being shortlisted by Arsenal is a reflection of this, as they could sign him and Gyokeres for less than it would take to lure Isak from the Magpies.” It’s a smart strategy that could pay dividends if Arsenal are to mount a serious title challenge next season.

Barcelona’s Interest Raises Stakes

Arsenal, however, will not have a clear run at Nkunku. TEAMtalk’s sources suggest Barcelona and several Bundesliga clubs are monitoring the situation closely. Barcelona’s ongoing rebuild under Xavi has seen them prioritise technically gifted, versatile attackers — a description that fits Nkunku perfectly.

Still, Arsenal’s Premier League project under Arteta, now well-established and highly attractive to players, could give them an edge. The Gunners’ Champions League qualification further strengthens their hand as they aim to convince Nkunku that north London is the perfect stage for his talents.

Arteta’s Vision Could Unlock Nkunku’s Potential

Nkunku’s playing style, marked by intelligent movement, creativity, and finishing ability, would dovetail nicely with Arteta’s tactical blueprint. The Frenchman thrives in systems that value interchangeability and fluid attacking patterns — core principles of Arsenal’s approach.

As TEAMtalk note, “The Gunners are keen to add multiple options to their frontline and they believe Nkunku would fit nicely into Arteta’s tactical style.” Given his age, experience, and relatively low fee, it’s easy to see why Arsenal view him as an ideal addition.

Photo: IMAGO

Should the Gunners successfully pull off this move, it would underline their strategic shift: signing players with peak-years potential at realistic prices, rather than overextending for marquee names.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

As an Arsenal supporter, this potential move for Christopher Nkunku is genuinely exciting. For £40m, Nkunku represents serious value in today’s inflated market. Yes, his season at Chelsea has been underwhelming, but we know from his Leipzig days that he can be devastating when used correctly.

What’s particularly appealing is how Nkunku would fit into Arteta’s system. He can play across the front line, offering the kind of versatility we sometimes lack, especially when injuries hit. If Arsenal can beat Barcelona and other Bundesliga clubs to his signature, it would send a real statement about the pulling power the club now enjoys.

There are, of course, minor concerns about his injury record, but at 27, he’s entering his prime years. Arteta has a proven track record of revitalising players who had previously struggled elsewhere. Just look at how he’s transformed the likes of Martin Ødegaard and Kai Havertz.

Moreover, adding someone like Nkunku would take some of the load off Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli, who have carried huge burdens this season. All things considered, this would be a low-risk, high-reward signing — the kind that could prove decisive in a tight title race.