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Manchester United plan swap deal to sign 19g/a star from PL rival

Originally posted on We All Follow United
By Siddharth Juyal | Last updated Jun 24, 2025 8:23 AM ET

Manchester United and Chelsea are planning a swap deal involving Christopher Nkunku and Alejandro Garnacho during the summer transfer window. Both players are up for permanent sale at the respective clubs, while they fulfil the desired profile with a swap.

Garnacho established himself as a senior player under Erik ten Hag, enjoying great success as an impact substitute at United. However, the Argentine has struggled to maintain consistency as a regular starter, particularly under the new United manager, Ruben Amorim.

Furthermore, Garnacho’s off-field behaviour has raised alarms at the club amid their need to sell undesirable players to help Amorim. The former Sporting CP boss wants a senior team that can play under his tactical philosophy, prioritising quality over quantity.

Recent reports suggested that United have dropped the asking price to £40m as the 20-year-old is demanding a domestic move. According to the Telegraph, United and Chelsea are ready to make a swap deal involving Garnacho and Nkunku that benefits all parties involved in the potential transfer.

Nkunku is capable of playing in multiple positions apart from his preferred central forward position, adding value to the team. The France international played 43 games in all competitions for Chelsea last season, scoring 14 goals and providing five assists.

With Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee struggling to establish themselves as first-team regulars, Nkunku’s signing makes sense. Despite having issues with constant injuries, the 27-year-old adds quality and versatility to the squad while operating in his prime.

However, the deal would mean that United are giving one of their top young product to London rivals. Man United have a healthy history of building young players and giving them every chance if they have massive potential.

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However, this is a peculiar situation as financial restraint, along with a poor relationship between Garnacho and Amorim, forces the issue. Rest assured, United are better served selling their surplus as quickly as possible to focus solely on building the squad.

This article first appeared on We All Follow United and was syndicated with permission.

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