Manchester United's interim boss Ralf Rangnick is reportedly pushing for the club to sign RB Leipzig midfielder Christopher Nkunku in the summer.
The Red Devils have been linked with a plethora of midfielders across Europe, as they prepare for life without Paul Pogba and Jesse Lingard, who are set to leave Old Trafford when their contracts expire in June.
Despite Leipzig chief Oliver Mintzlaff insisting that Nkunku will not leave the Bundesliga outfit next summer, ESPN reports that United have stepped up their interest in the Frenchman at the request of Rangnick.
The report adds that the Red Devils had not identified Nkunku as a target before the appointment of Rangnick, who was key in recruiting the midfielder to Leipzig in 2019 during his time as their director of football.
Man United may face stern competition from other top clubs in Europe for the signing of Nkunku, with rivals Manchester City, Arsenal, Liverpool and Real Madrid also believed to be monitoring the 24-year-old.
Nkunku, who is yet to make his senior debut for the French national team, has enjoyed a stellar campaign in front of goal for Leipzig this season, scoring 19 goals and providing 13 assists in 31 appearances across all competitions.
Oliver Thomas
