AC Milan manager Max Allegri has reportedly intervened to halt a potential January move for French forward of Congolese descent Christopher Nkunku, despite strong interest from Turkish side Fenerbahce.
According to La Repubblica, the Istanbul club has identified Nkunku as a leading target for the winter transfer window, with the AC Milan attacker topping their list of possible reinforcements.
Fenerbahce are said to be keen on pushing through a deal as they look to strengthen their squad in the second half of the season.
However, Allegri’s stance on the situation is said to be firm. The Italian coach has effectively vetoed any attempt to sell the Frenchman, making it clear that he does not want Nkunku to leave during the January window.
Allegri is understood to be a strong admirer of the player’s technical qualities and believes that, with time and continued work, Nkunku can fit seamlessly into Milan’s rotation, even if he is not a natural centre-forward.
While remaining opposed to Nkunku’s departure, Allegri is reportedly open to discussions only if there is a guarantee that a replacement of equal quality would arrive. In the absence of an irresistible offer, it now appears increasingly unlikely that the striker will be allowed to leave midway through the season.
