According to reports from La Gazzetta dello Sport, AC Milan forward Christopher Nkunku prefers a return to RB Leipzig over a potential move to Newcastle United during the current transfer window. Both clubs are actively holding talks with Milan, but the Magpies remain significantly behind the Bundesliga side in securing the French striker’s signature.
Nkunku Targets RB Leipzig Reunion
Christopher Nkunku is closing in on a return to RB Leipzig, where he previously played from 2019 to 2023, according to La Gazzetta dello Sport. The French international is not part of manager Ruben Amorim’s plans for the upcoming season at Milan, prompting the Serie A club to seek a departure after just one year at San Siro.
Nkunku originally arrived in Milan from Chelsea in a deal valued at €37m plus add-ons. During his single campaign in Italy, he managed eight goals across 35 competitive appearances. With his playing time severely limited looking ahead, Milan has opted to facilitate an exit through a loan agreement featuring an option to buy.
Transfer Negotiations and Financial Terms
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport Milan reporter Luca Bianchin, Newcastle United are well behind RB Leipzig in the race to sign the former Chelsea forward. Talks between Milan and Leipzig are progressing rapidly, with both clubs expected to finalize a loan deal with an option to buy in the coming days.
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Under the terms being discussed, RB Leipzig will cover the striker’s entire €5m salary for the 2026–27 season. This financial arrangement has helped accelerate negotiations between the German club and Milan management, pushing them ahead of English suitors.
Did you know? Christopher Nkunku spent four successful seasons at RB Leipzig between 2019 and 2023 before making his initial move to the English Premier League with Chelsea.
Concurrent Bundesliga and Serie A Moves
The negotiations for Nkunku coincide with other squad adjustments involving the clubs. RB Leipzig recently sent midfielder Eljif Elmas on loan to Atalanta, a transaction that La Gazzetta dello Sport noted was officially confirmed by La Dea shortly before the latest updates on Nkunku’s future emerged.
As clubs fine-tune their rosters for the new campaign, Milan’s willingness to accept an option-to-buy loan structure has provided Leipzig with a clear pathway to re-sign their former talisman.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which clubs are trying to sign Christopher Nkunku from Milan?
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, RB Leipzig and Newcastle United have both held talks with Milan regarding the French striker.
Why is Milan willing to let Nkunku leave?
The forward is not part of Ruben Amorim’s plans for the upcoming season, following a campaign where he scored eight goals in 35 competitive appearances after joining from Chelsea.
What are the financial terms of the expected Leipzig deal?
Reports indicate that Leipzig and Milan are finalizing a loan with an option to buy, with the German club covering Nkunku’s €5m salary for the 2026–27 season.
How does Nkunku’s preference impact Newcastle United?
La Gazzetta dello Sport reports that Newcastle are well behind RB Leipzig because the player favors a return to his former German club.
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