Christopher Nkunku told to consider shock Arsenal transfer by Chelsea legend as Frenchman continues to struggle for opportunities under Enzo Maresca at Stamford Bridge

Nkunku has struggled for regular game time since joining Chelsea from RB Leipzig two years ago, scoring just six goals in 38 Premier League appearances and often being unavailable due to injury. He has led the line during the Conference League campaign, helping the Blues reach the final, but his path into Enzo Maresca's strongest starting XI has been blocked by Cole Palmer.

Nkunku could be one of several Chelsea players who depart during the summer transfer window and former winger Florent Malouda has named both Arsenal and Bayern Munich as potential landing spots if the 27-year-old were to leave.

Malouda told Racing Tipster: "Arsenal or Bayern Munich would be the right kind of place for him to go, but I'm not sure he should leave Chelsea. Personally, I like him as a player, as a person. I would love for him to fight and to prove what he showed in the beginning.

"I think it's more a mental aspect that he needs to work on a little bit, like Jadon Sancho. Moving clubs, it's sometimes running away from what you have to adjust. He's used to the Bundesliga, but at Bayern, there would be competition too. So for me he has more things to improve.

But it's like he kind of gave up mentally, and that's what he needs to adjust. But yeah, Bayern Munich or Arsenal would be good clubs for him to continue to progress and, and most important is to prepare for the World cup coming next year."

Nkunku wowed audiences during his previous spell in the Bundesliga, terrifying defences during his last two seasons at Leipzig where he netted a combined 58 goals in all competitions. Bayern could offer the France international a return to more familiar surroundings, but Arsenal have been willing to sign players from Chelsea in the past and could be willing to do business if the price is right.

Nkunku will hope his European efforts are rewarded with a start in the Conference League in a few weeks, though he could still feature in Friday night's clash with Manchester United.