Manchester United and Chelsea on alert amid potential swap deal

According to reports in the Telegraph, both Garnacho and Nkunku are keen to leave their respective clubs this summer. No formal talks are underway, but close sources do not rule out that both moves could happen independently, solving pressing needs for both clubs.

Garnacho has already signalled his exit. Nkunku, meanwhile, has failed to establish himself under Enzo Maresca, and his role in the team has been overshadowed by the emergence of Cole Palmer and the arrival of Liam Delap.

From a sporting logic, the thought of a swap between Garnacho and Nkunku does not sound far-fetched. Garnacho is vertical, explosive and good on one-on-one, but also unpredictable and, at times, tactically immature. Amorim, who is committed to rigorous playing structures and well-defined roles, might prefer a player like Nkunku, who combines technique, mobility and positional intelligence.

The Frenchman can occupy several positions up front, moves well inside and has a superior reading of the game. Although injuries have hampered his impact in England, his footballing ceiling remains high.

Letting Garnacho go would represent a risk, especially considering he could flourish in a young and ambitious Chelsea. However, there are also arguments in favour of lightening the dressing room and getting rid of players who do not align with the new project.

United need to clear egos and sort out roles. Nkunku is not a guarantee, but he is a more moldable player for what Amorim might want to build, as he is need of a striker. In short, it is not just a question of talent, but of fit. If United are committed to the collective rather than the individual, moving in this direction, although controversial, could be a brave decision and, in time, the right one.