Chelsea are reportedly closing in on a deal to sign RB Leipzig attacker Christopher Nkunku.
The French international, 24, enjoyed a stellar last campaign as he scored 35 goals and set up 20 more in 52 appearances across all formats during a fantastic term for RB Leipzig. He was named the Bundesliga Player of the Year and was rewarded with a new two-year extension that keeps him at the German club until 2026, although it contains a release clause of €60 million.
According to Bild, Chelsea are planning to complete the signing of Christopher Nkunku from RB Leipzig before the World Cup commences in Qatar next month. They are now finalising a transfer with Leipzig, after the French attacker underwent a medical in Frankfurt in the closing stages of the summer transfer window, the report adds.
Nkunku has been one of Leipzig’s standout performers and carried his form into this season, netting seven goals in nine Bundesliga games. His performances have attracted interest from all across Europe, but Chelsea co-owner Todd Boehly is keen to pay his €60 million release clause to ensure they steal a march on their rivals.
Christopher Nkunku to Chelsea—How will he fit in?
Chelsea’s potential capture of Christopher Nkunku from Leipzig is part of boss Graham Potter’s plans to add some variety and depth to the attack. The Blues, after all, need a forward who can provide some flexibility up front while competing with the likes of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Raheem Sterling and Kai Havertz for a place in the team.
Nkunku has been highly sought after by several of Europe’s elite clubs. The 24-year-old is a versatile player who can operate on the left, in midfield, in the hole behind the main striker or as a false 9. Since leaving PSG a few years ago, he has proven his quality in the Bundesliga and is now vying for a place in the French squad for the World Cup.
The Frenchman’s dribbling skills and directness will be a breath of fresh air, and his flair, creativity, movement and ball-striking ability with either foot should make him an ideal fit in Graham Potter’s system at Stamford Bridge. As Potter is a tactically astute manager who never hesitates to tweak his system when required, Nkunku can thrive in various attacking roles under him and impact games for Chelsea.
Be it off the left or as a false 9, the Leipzig star’s game intelligence and spatial awareness could see him make it big in the Premier League. Plus, there will be a lot to learn for the 24-year-old from highly experienced players like Sterling and Aubameyang, who will be functioning in and around him.
Christopher Nkunku is already playing at a high level and is only 24. The French attacker will improve tremendously over the next few years and has the potential to be a bargain in the long run for Chelsea.