RB Leipzig are attempting to remain firm in their stance on Christopher Nkunku.
The attacker has been in fine form for the Bundesliga outfit this season, netting a remarkable 32 goals while registering a further 20 assists across his 49 appearances.
Understandably, many top European clubs are now set to be after the Frenchman with United thought to have made him one of their targets for the summer, though any final decision won’t be made until Erik ten Hag has had his say.
Leipzig director Oliver Mintzlaff however has said they’ve told Nkunku and his agent that they’re not open to letting him leave this summer.
Nkunku is contracted to the club until the summer of 2024, which means we’re now entering the two-year window in which clubs look to tie down their best assets on a more long-term deal, or cash in for maximum returns.
The Red Bull model indicates that the latter is possible, despite Mintzlaff’s comments, meaning United officials won’t be deterred. Especially with Ralf Rangnick going behind the scenes in a consultancy role with the club at the end of this season.
Rangnick is a big fan of Nkunku’s and wanted to look into the possibility of signing him in January shortly after arriving at Old Trafford.
The 63-year-old asked for information on Nkunku but he was left shocked when they told him that they were not tracking the player who he believes is "the best young player in Germany".
That statement wouldn’t be an exaggeration based on his recent form and there’s every chance he could continue his success at Old Trafford next season. Specifically when you take into account Ten Hag’s arrival and the way in which he heavily relies upon skilful technical attackers in his teams.
At Ajax, the Dutchman tends to line up with an attacking quartet of Antony, Steven Berghuis, Dusan Tadic and Sebastien Haller. Three of those four share similar traits to Nkunku, with Haller - who often plays as the number nine - the exception.
These attributes are that all three are great dribblers, finishers and possess an ability to unlock defences with exquisite through balls. That latter trait is crucial in Ten Hag’s system as his side will usually dominate the ball and often force opponents back into their own half, meaning there’s not a lot of room to find teammates in valuable attacking areas.
Quality in possession is therefore key, and Nkunku’s average of 1.04 key passes per 90 this season - an average that ranks him inside the Bundesliga’s top ten players - highlights his proficiency in this area.
Beyond his goals and creative capabilities, the 24-year-old is highly versatile and has played a number of roles for Leipzig’s attack this season, ranging from on both wings, in midfield and even leading the line. Again this will appeal to Ten Hag who won’t yet know what formation he’ll favour in order to get the very best from his side.
It’s easy to see that Nkunku has the profile to thrive under Ten Hag at United next season, therefore don’t be shocked to see United aggressively pursuing a deal for him over this summer.
