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Barcelona are reportedly interested in signing Chelsea forward Christopher Nkunku, who has struggled for consistent playing time under manager Enzo Maresca this season. The 27-year-old Frenchman is said to be growing frustrated with his lack of opportunities in the Premier League, despite being a standout performer in cup competitions.
Nkunku, who joined Chelsea from RB Leipzig, has only started twice in the Premier League this season, scoring two goals. The Blues currently sit four points behind league leaders Liverpool, but Maresca has favored Nicolas Jackson as the starting striker in the league, limiting Nkunku's appearances. Additionally, Chelsea's attacking midfielder role has been dominated by Cole Palmer, leaving little room for Nkunku to feature in his preferred position.
While Nkunku has struggled for minutes in the Premier League, he has shone in the Carabao Cup and UEFA Conference League, where he has scored an impressive 10 goals this season. Despite this, his limited involvement in the top flight has reportedly prompted his agent, Pini Zahavi, to explore potential moves, with Barcelona emerging as a possible destination. According to Sport 45, Zahavi has offered Nkunku to the La Liga leaders, although the Catalan club would only consider a move at the end of the season, not during the January transfer window.
Nkunku endured a challenging first season at Chelsea, plagued by injuries under former manager Mauricio Pochettino. He managed just 14 appearances across all competitions last term, scoring three goals. However, under Maresca's management, Nkunku has remained fit and available for selection in every game this season.
Despite Nkunku's reported dissatisfaction, Maresca has publicly dismissed the idea of letting the forward leave in January. "I spoke to Christo a few days ago, and he didn't say he was unhappy," Maresca said. "Of course, he wants to play more minutes, like many players, but he's an important part of the squad. I have no plans to let him go."
Maresca also emphasized Nkunku's versatility, highlighting his ability to play as a No. 10 or between the lines, even though Cole Palmer has secured the attacking midfield role. The Chelsea boss remains adamant that Nkunku will play a role in the team moving forward, but whether the Frenchman will remain patient until the end of the season remains uncertain.
