As the January transfer window draws to a close, the race to strengthen squads is intensifying across the Premier League. Several clubs have made moves in recent weeks, with Chelsea stars Christopher Nkunku and João Félix both linked with potential exits from Stamford Bridge. Meanwhile, Manchester United are in clear need of attacking reinforcements. We spoke to former United defender Paul Parker to discuss the club’s potential transfer activity.
In this article:
- Man United Can’t Afford to Touch Nkunku or Félix
- Why Are Arsenal’s Young Stars Leaving for Old Trafford
Man United Can’t Afford to Touch Nkunku or Félix
When Chelsea signed Nkunku from RB Leipzig in a £52 million deal in 2023, expectations were high. The Frenchman had excelled in the Bundesliga, but his time in London has been marred by injuries. Compounding the issue is Chelsea’s recruitment strategy, which saw them sign Cole Palmer—who has since established himself as the club’s best player and first-choice No. 10, a position Nkunku favours.
Likewise, João Félix, now in his second spell at Chelsea, has struggled for consistent game time. Both players have been linked with moves away, and with United in need of attacking options that would fit into Rúben Amorim’s system, speculation has emerged. However, Parker is unconvinced.
“João Félix has been bounced around more than a cricket ball. He’s moved from club to club, which is worrying. A few years ago, both Félix and Nkunku looked like outstanding talents.
“It just hasn’t worked for Félix at Chelsea or Barcelona, so I’d say no. He seems lightweight. Nkunku was exceptional at Leipzig, but plenty of players who have thrived in Germany have struggled in England. Timo Werner comes to mind straight away. The Bundesliga’s high defensive lines suited Nkunku’s game, but he hasn’t found the same rhythm here.”
Amorim recently stated that United cannot afford many more transfer mistakes, given their history of costly signings that have failed to deliver. Parker believes the risk with Nkunku is too high.
“Nkunku has talent, and perhaps a change of scenery could help him rediscover his best form. But so far, he hasn’t risen to the challenge of competing for his place at Chelsea. Do you really want a player like that in your squad?
“Signing him would be a gamble—you’d have to believe he’d be happy at United and give everything for the club. But if either Nkunku or Félix fails to deliver, the criticism will be relentless. United simply can’t afford to take that risk.”
Why Are Arsenal’s Young Stars Leaving for Old Trafford?
While neither Nkunku nor Félix represents the marquee signing United fans might hope for, the club continues to attract young talent from rival academies. Following the signing of highly-rated Norwegian striker Chido Obi-Martin, United are now closing in on Arsenal prospect Ayden Heaven.
Currently on a scholarship deal at Arsenal, Heaven’s contract expires at the end of the season, and he has reportedly rejected new terms from the Gunners, as well as an approach from Eintracht Frankfurt. Parker believes Arsenal’s reluctance to offer young players first-team opportunities has contributed to their academy graduates seeking moves elsewhere.
“A lot of young Arsenal players have seen that Arteta doesn’t really trust youth. He’s trying now because someone’s told him he has to, but for a long time, that wasn’t the case.
“The way Arteta’s first team plays isn’t the same as how the youth teams play. These young players might see a clearer path at United, where there’s a tradition of giving youth a chance. If you’re good enough, you’ll play. The fans want to see academy players representing the club.
“It’s actually a good time for young players at United because the first-team squad simply isn’t performing. Is there someone in the academy who can step up and bring energy to the attack? You won’t know unless you give them a chance.
“I remember playing with a young lad in the last game of the season, and he turned out to be one of United’s greatest-ever players—Ryan Giggs. Sir Alex gave young players opportunities because he trusted the team to nurture them.”
Manchester United are set to return to action this evening, as they take on FCSB in their final match of the Europa League group stage campaign. The Red Devils are priced at 8/15 on Betano to come out on top in that match, which could be a tempting price for some keen bettors.
