Out-of-favour AC Milan attacker Christopher Nkunku is one step closer to rejoining RB Leipzig on loan this summer.
According to an update from French journalist Santi Aouna, Christopher Nkunku is also the subject of interest from Newcastle United. The Magpies are keen on reinforcing their offensive unit by signing a versatile attacker in the final days of the ongoing transfer window, and they have their sights set on the 28-year-old out-of-favour AC Milan forward.
However, RB Leipzig and AC Milan already have an agreement for a loan deal with a purchase option worth €27 million. While Newcastle United may have fallen behind the Bundesliga giants, all hope is not lost, as the Frenchman has yet to give the green light to return to the Red Bull Arena in the coming days.
Christopher Nkunku and his stalling career
Christopher Nkunku, once among the world’s most revered attackers, has seen his stock plummet in the last few years. The 28-year-old was a highly productive forward during his stint with RB Leipzig, often scoring goals for fun. However, fitness issues plagued him at Chelsea, and the issues have compounded 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, a summer departure is imminent, as Nkunku has no place in Ruben Amorim’s plans, having 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 remains impressive (18 goals and 5 assists in 2,844 minutes of game time), and his experience of playing in the Premier League should enable him to settle down quickly at St. James’ Park.
However, with RB Leipzig already having an agreement for a loan deal, the Magpies are running out of time to seal a deal. The Bundesliga club’s interest is understandable, as Romulo and Conrad Harder are the only strikers in Martin Demichelis’s squad. With Leipzig having an agreement for a loan deal, they must now convince the French international to return to the Red Bull Arena, though Newcastle remain in the picture.