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Manchester United’s prospects of signing Christopher Nkunku appear to have taken a backwards step amid claims of more forceful interest from a new suitor.

The French midfielder has been in sensational form this season for RB Leipzig. Indeed, having taken up a more advanced midfield role, the 24-year-old has responded with 30 goals in all competitions. That tally includes seven goals in six Champions League games and three in four Europa League appearances.

Indeed, the Bundesliga side are through to the semi-finals of the Europa League and face Glasgow Rangers for a place in the final.

Giovanni van Bronckhorst’s side have done extremely well to reach the last four of a major European competition.

However, they will need to keep a close watch on Nkunku if they are to make the final.

Given Nkunku’s form, it’s little surprise to see him linked with a number of big-money moves this summer.

Indeed, Manchester City – whom Nkunku scored a hat-trick against in a 6-3 thriller – are among those to have been linked.

Arsenal too are also long-term admirers and are reportedly keen to make a fresh approach this summer. They were looking to sign the player during his time at PSG, with then-Gunners boss Unai Emery a huge admirer.

That said, the strongest links have come from Manchester United. They are looking to strengthen their midfield this summer amid several potential departures.

Nemanja Matic has already confirmed his departure in an emotional message to supporters. And Paul Pogba and Jesse Lingard also look set to follow suit with both players becoming free agents on July 1.

The departure of Pogba and Lingard will remove something of a goal threat from United’s midfield. While neither have been potent weapons in that regards this season, both are more than capable of chipping in with goals from the area.

Rangnick wants Man Utd to sign Nkunku

As such, it’s little wonder to see them plotting a move for Nkunku. To that end, United’s interim manager Ralf Rangnick is known to be keen on an Old Trafford reunion with the star.

Rangnick will stay on in an advisory role for United at the end of the season. And the name of Nkunku is one of the players he has reportedly recommended the club tries to sign.

Indeed, a report last week claimed United were working on the deal to kick off the Erik ten Hag era in style.

However, United no longer appear to be the frontrunners for the player’s signing.

That’s with Gazzetta dello Sport claiming Nkunku is emerging as one of AC Milan’s prime objectives this summer.

They report that Milan are targeting deals for five players this summer, with Nkunku’s name at the top of their wishlist.

Milan summer dealings to start with Divock Origi

It certainly promises to be a busy summer as far as AC Milan are concerned.

As well as Nkunku, they are also seemingly pushing to sign Nicolo Zaniolo from Roma and Ajax striker Sebastien Haller.

Before then, Milan are reportedly increasingly confident of securing the signing of Sven Botman.

The Lille defender has been on Newcastle’s radar ever since their new Saudi owners took control.

However, il Gazzetta expects the Dutch defender to snub Tyneside in favour of a move to the San Siro.

First up for Milan, however, will be the capture of Liverpool’s Divock Origi.

The Belgian striker is a free agent with his deal at Anfield expiring this summer.

Milan have been in talks for some time over his signing and an agreement has reportedly been reached.

The 26-year-old will reportedly sign a three-year deal worth £55,000 a week. The deal also includes the option of a fourth year if all parties agree.

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