Transfer Talk: Chelsea rival United for Nkunku

Chelsea have entered the race to sign RB Leipzig forward Christopher Nkunku.

The French attacker, 24, has been heavily linked with a move to Manchester United this summer, but Sky Germany say Thomas Tuchel is interested in bringing Nkunku to Stamford Bridge.

The Blues are set to undergo a busy summer of transfer activity under prospective new American ownership and strengthening their forward line is a priority for the German boss.

Midfielder Mason Mount is the only Chelsea player to have reached double figures in the league this term, with Kai Havertz and Romelu Lukaku notching only seven goals apiece.

Nkunku meanwhile has enjoyed a stunning campaign at Leipzig, with 34 goals in all competitions firing the Red Bulls to the Europa League semi-finals and fourth place in the German top flight with one Bundesliga game remaining.

United interim boss Ralf Rangnick is a long-term admirer of the Paris Saint-Germain academy graduate meaning the Red Devils are likely to rival the West Londoners in any bidding war.

Leipzig are also unlikely to let their prized asset leave the club without a significant transfer fee, with Nkunku under contract at the Red Bull Arena until 2024.

In other news

United are also keeping a close eye on the future of Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen, with Napoli happy to let their No9 leave for around £85million.

Italian media say long-term admirers Newcastle have also earmarked the 23-year-old as one of their key transfer targets as the Magpies seek to build on a promising start to Eddie Howe’s tenure at St James’ Park.

Paul Pogba is close to ending his time at Old Trafford, but Real Madrid have not ruled out a late swoop for the Frenchman with Juventus and PSG said to be favourites to land his signature.

Reports in Spain say the Champions League finalists are considering an approach as they look to strengthen their aging midfield.

Finally, Aston Villa will expect a fee of £50m to part ways with striker Ollie Watkins, according to the Guardian.

West Ham are the leading contenders to bid for the England international, with a new forward the summer priority for Hammers boss David Moyes.