Christopher Nkunku at a ‘turning point’ as Newcastle discover transfer chances; Chelsea also in pursuit
French newspaper L’Equipe have provided a couple of big updates on the future of Christopher Nkunku, who is thought to be a target for Newcastle and Chelsea this summer.
Nkunku had a great season with RB Leipzig, perfectly demonstrated by the fact he won Bundesliga’s Player of the Season award ahead of Robert Lewandowski.
The attacking midfielder, who can also operate as a centre-forward, bagged 35 goals and 20 assists in all competitions. 20 of those goals came in the German top flight, putting Nkunku joint fourth on the scoring charts.
Nkunku has only made two appearances for the French national team so far in his career. But after such a memorable campaign, he could make it into Didier Deschamps’ squad for the World Cup. The 24-year-old is part of the squad for the upcoming Nations League fixtures.
Nkunku is also in line for a big transfer during the summer window. Reports have put Manchester United and Chelsea on his trail.
During a recent interview, the star suggested he could go back to Paris Saint-Germain. They are his ‘favourite’ club as he came through the academy there.
But Premier League teams will still try to capture him from Leipzig as they know he could have a massive impact in England.
According to L’Equipe, as cited by Sport Witness, Nkunku is open to changing clubs this summer and knows he is at a ‘turning point’ in his career.
Newcastle plot ambitious Christopher Nkunku move
This may be the Frenchman’s best chance to join one of England’s biggest sides.
However, Newcastle also hold an interest and could attempt to win the transfer race by offering Nkunku a huge financial package.
Despite their best efforts, Nkunku will push any Newcastle proposals back. That’s because their project doesn’t convince him.
It is more positive news for Chelsea. Their qualification for next season’s Champions League means they remain an attractive destination.
Christopher Nkunku praises PSG and Paris
Christopher Nkunku could leave RB Leipzig this summer and he praises PSG saying that Paris is his home
And now the takeover has gone through, there are less concerns about the future of the club.
L’Equipe suggest Chelsea could be one of the first teams to make an offer for Nkunku. But like Newcastle, there is a stumbling block in the Blues’ path.
That’s because Leipzig have ‘no intention’ of letting the forward go this year. Normally Red Bull clubs will sell if the terms are right, but that is not the case here.
Leipzig chiefs have told Nkunku’s agent that they don’t want to sell. This will make it very hard for Chelsea to complete a deal for Nkunku.
From this report, it seems Chelsea are in a better position than Newcastle to land Nkunku. But the main obstacle to overcome is Leipzig’s willingness to sell.
The best way to do this is by offering a huge amount of money. Therefore, this could become one of Todd Boehly’s first objectives as the new Chelsea owner.
Meanwhile, Newcastle have raided a Premier League rival to appoint their new sporting director.
