Nkunku, 27, was welcomed with open arms when he joined Chelsea from RB Leipzig for £52million in 2023. But he has seen his market value dip in spite of scoring 14 goals in just 22 starts this term. Liverpool had previously spotted his potential during his stint at Leipzig, but Klopp stepped in to turn his team in a different direction.
The Times reported last year that Klopp intervened to ensure his team signed Darwin Nunez from Benfica in 2022 instead. But given Nunez’s struggles in front of goal, some may question whether Nkunku would have been a better signing.
Amorim, 40, could potentially disrupt United’s plans as they increase their interest in Brentford winger Mbeumo. The Red Devils saw their initial offer of £45m plus £10m in add-ons for the Cameroon international rejected.
But they have now come back with a second bid worth £60m, just £5m short of Brentford’s supposed valuation. Amorim already brought Brazil international Matheus Cunha in from Wolves this summer and seems determined to further bolster his attacking options.
Despite not qualifying for European competition next term, United’s financial clout doesn’t seem to have taken as big a hit as some had anticipated. The club appears unafraid to spend, confident in their ability to balance the books through other means.
Amorim has wasted little time in trying to make his mark on the team during his first summer transfer window at Old Trafford. Adding Mbeumo to his ranks would be another significant signing, especially considering the player might hold out for a team competing in the Champions League next season.
The chase for Nkunku might be viewed as the more attractive option to some considering it could facilitate the departure of Garnacho. However, this would necessitate a substantial amount of negotiation as the two deals would need to be handled separately, rather than as a direct exchange.
Regardless, United’s subsequent offer for Mbeumo seems to indicate he has piqued Amorim’s interest as a preferred target. If this is true, it would demonstrate the Portuguese’s persuasive abilities, reminiscent of ex-Liverpool manager Klopp.