Manchester United should "drop Alejandro Garnacho off" and "pick Chelsea forward Christopher Nkunku up" in a sensational January transfer swap, according to Paul Merson.

Reports emerged on Friday evening that United and Chelsea are "considering" a swap deal involving Garnacho and Nkunku before the end of the window. Sky Sports Germany claimed that while no final decision has been made, it's an idea that has been discussed and is now on the table.

Garnacho's future at Old Trafford remains uncertain after struggling to adapt to life under Ruben Amorim. The 20-year-old has one goal and one assist in 14 games since the Portuguese became their head coach. It was reported - on Thursday - that Chelsea were "lining up" an opening bid for the Argentine.

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Nkunku, meanwhile, has started just three Premier League matches this season and that lack of game-time is a concern. The Frenchman has dropped down the pecking order under Enzo Maresca and could depart before the end of the transfer window, with Bayern Munich and United both thought to be interested.

The idea of swapping Garnacho for Nkunku would be perfect for United, according to ex-Arsenal and Aston Villa midfielder Merson, who believes Amorim's side should be getting that done done.

"If I am United, I am getting that deal done, 100 per cent," pundit Merson told Sky Sports.

"I am dropping him [Garnacho] off and picking up Nkunku. He's a good player, he has been bang unlucky at Chelsea because of [Cole] Palmer, who's done unbelievably well. If Man United get him, that would get a signing and a half."

Meanwhile, Merson doesn't see why the Garnacho part of the deal is a suitable one for Chelsea due to the wealth of players in his position. "I don't get the Garnacho one, he is not better than [Jadon] Sancho, he is not better than [Pedro] Neto," Merson continued.

"Him and [Noni] Madueke have their days where they look really good - but it won't be consistent enough. Yeah I don't see where he plays, but Nkunku walks into the Man United team."