Arsenal eye Chelsea's Christopher Nkunku as Mikel Arteta looks to bolster attack

Arsenal are reportedly weighing a move for out-of-favour Chelsea forward Christopher Nkunku as manager Mikel Arteta looks to strengthen his attacking options this summer, according to TEAMtalk.

The former RB Leipzig striker is among several Chelsea players expected to leave Stamford Bridge in the coming months.

While Nkunku is open to a departure, he is keen to ensure that his next club will provide him with consistent playing time.

Nkunku joined Chelsea for £52million in 2023, following an impressive spell at Leipzig where he scored 70 goals in 172 appearances.

However, he has struggled to secure a regular spot in the Blues’ starting XI, having started only nine Premier League matches this season. Despite his limited action, Arsenal remain interested in Nkunku.

The Gunners are looking to add depth to their attacking options and believe Nkunku could fit well into Arteta’s tactical system.

However, Arsenal face competition for his signature. Barcelona, along with several Bundesliga clubs, are closely monitoring Nkunku’s situation.

Nkunku is reportedly open to various possibilities as the summer transfer window approaches

The French forward is reportedly open to various possibilities as the summer transfer window approaches. He could leave Chelsea for as little as £40million, which is seen as a bargain by potential suitors.

Chelsea are preparing for a busy summer, with several players expected to arrive and depart.

The Blues are looking to offload six players, including Christopher Nkunku, Noni Madueke, Trevoh Chalobah, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, Andrey Santos, and Joao Felix.

Nkunku was also the subject of interest in January, but Chelsea opted to retain him, partly due to squad depth and the belief they could secure a better deal in the summer.

The Blues may also use Nkunku as part of a player swap deal with interested clubs.

Arsenal have been working diligently on striker targets, with discussions held with Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres and RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko as they search for the right deal.

The Gunners’ dream signing would be Alexander Isak from Newcastle, but his high asking price makes him difficult to acquire.

Nkunku’s inclusion on Arsenal’s shortlist reflects their strategy to strengthen their attack, with the possibility of signing both him and Gyokeres for less than the cost of Isak.

The expectation is that Nkunku will leave Chelsea, and while a move to Arsenal is plausible, he is unlikely to be short of offers as clubs prepare their summer bids.