Newcastle United will look to sign 28-year-old French international Christopher Nkunku from AC Milan this summer.
According to an update from reputed Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano, Christopher Nkunku is also the subject of interest from RB Leipzig. Both Leipzig and Newcastle are “in direct contact” with AC Milan over a possible move in the final days of the ongoing transfer window, though these have only been initial moves from the two clubs.
Meanwhile, reputed German journalist Florian Plettenberg has suggested that there is “a feeling that RB Leipzig are currently ahead in the race for Christopher Nkunku”. The report adds that the Bundesliga giants are also having negotiations with AC Milan to sign the Frenchman, who wants to return to the Red Bull Arena.
Christopher Nkunku and his stalling career
Christopher Nkunku has gone from being one of the world’s most productive attacking players to a struggling forward in a couple of years. The 28-year-old was on top of his game during his stint with RB Leipzig, often scoring goals for fun. However, fitness issues plagued him during his stint with Chelsea, with the issues compounding at AC Milan.
The French attacker still managed a decent output of eight goals and three assists in only 1,528 minutes of game time in 35 appearances across all competitions. However, Nkunku has no future at AC Milan, as he does not feature in Ruben Amorim’s plans and has been assigned to the “bomb squad”. That has not affected his stock, with several clubs vying for his signature.
Premier League return on the horizon?
Newcastle United’s interest in Christopher Nkunku is understandable. The Magpies are combing the market for a versatile attacker, as they have lost considerable quality from Anthony Gordon’s departure. Additionally, Nick Woltemade and Yoane Wissa face an uncertain future at St. James’ Park after enduring a frustrating debut season with the Tyneside club.
Several strikers, including Liam Delap, have thus emerged on Newcastle United’s wishlist, with Nkunku also a viable target. While the Frenchman struggled with fitness issues during his stint with Chelsea, his productivity did not wane, and his experience of playing in the Premier League should enable him to settle down quickly at St. James’ Park.
However, with RB Leipzig making the more serious moves to sign the out-of-favour AC Milan forward, a return to the Bundesliga appears likelier. For Newcastle United to sign Nkunku, they must now intensify negotiations with AC Milan, and they also need to turn the French attacker’s head.
