Fabrizio Romano gives update on potential swap involving Alejandro Garnacho and Christopher Nkunku

Interest in both players has been simmering for several months. Nkunku was seen as a potential replacement after the club parted ways with Marcus Rashford and Antony, while Garnacho was just returning to the side following reports of disciplinary issues.

However, timing and differing preferences over loan versus permanent deals prevented anything from materialising back then.

Now, conditions may be more favourable. Romano commented that the current market dynamics could bring the two clubs closer together, even if nothing formal has started just yet.

“Man Utd know that Nkunku is available on the market. Chelsea are looking for a winger and know that Garnacho will leave United. It’s a similar situation that could make sense for the two clubs; this is why we have suggestions of swap deals.

“I can tell you, as of tonight, concrete negotiations for the swap are not taking place. My understanding is that two clubs are fully aware, but no negotiations right now.”

Alejandro Garnacho transfer saga will stretch late in the window

Deals of this nature are rarely simple, especially given the high profiles of the players involved. United have valued Garnacho at around £70 million and will likely want more than just Nkunku in return, particularly as the Chelsea man’s standing within his own club has diminished.

However, it’s also possible that United could pursue other options, given that Nkunku isn’t a traditional number nine. The club still have a clear need for a central striker rather than another player who operates best either wide or in a deeper forward role.

This swap deal feels more like a solution born out of opportunism and circumstance than genuine mutual interest. It’s a story that looks likely to run well into the latter stages of the transfer window, if both remain available near the deadline.