Transfer Talk: Rangnick urges United to step up Nkunku pursuit

Manchester United manager Ralf Rangnick has urged the club to make a move for RB Leipzig attacker Christopher Nkunku.

The 24-year-old has continued to grow his reputation as one of the Bundesliga’s most exciting talents by netting 19 goals in 31 games this season.

His exploits have attracted interest from some of Europe’s top clubs, including United, who now look poised to commence talks.

ESPN say Rangnick, formerly in charge of Leipzig, told club chiefs to add Nkunku to their list of targets shortly after arriving in December.

Not previously tracking him before the 63-year-old came on board, United scouts were instructed to increase their focus on the Paris Saint-Germain academy graduate.

Operating in attacking midfield as well as on both wings and up front, Nkunku would offer a significant boost to the Red Devils’ current forward options.

It is said United will look to act fast in order to fend off competition from the likes of Real Madrid, Manchester City, Liverpool and Arsenal.

But with Nkunku under contract until 2024 at the Red Bull Arena, Leipzig chief Oliver Mintzlaff has not ruled out keeping him past this summer.

Mintzlaff told Sky Germany: "He [Nkunku] will also play with us next season because of course he is a very important player. In football, nothing is ever certain but that's our plan.

"We don't have many players who can leave us in the summer. We want to strengthen the team rather than weaken it."

In other news

Antonio Rudiger says Chelsea will decide whether he stays at the club past this summer, with offers from Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain thought to be on the table.

The 28-year-old — whose contract expires at the end the season — told the Athletic: "I feel great here, I have always said it. 

"I think the way I play you can see that I’m happy here. But there are also other people who have to make decisions."

The Mail claim that PSG are assembling a lucrative package to sign United midfielder Paul Pogba this summer.

But the 28-year-old has not ruled out signing a new deal to stay at Old Trafford, with Juventus, Barcelona and Real Madrid also tracking the Frenchman.

Manchester City are among three English clubs interested in 20-year-old Barca midfielder Nico Gonzalez, according to Marca.

The youngster has established himself as a regular starter at the Camp Nou this season and clubs from both Serie A and the Bundesliga may also test Barca’s resolve with a summer bid.