Milan are poised to sign the Chelsea forward Christopher Nkunku for a package worth €42m (£36.2m). The deal contains a sell-on clause for the France international, who has agreed personal terms with the Serie A club.
Chelsea have revamped their attack and decided Nkunku is not part of their plans. They are expected to add to Enzo Maresca’s options by signing the Manchester United winger Alejandro Garnacho for between £35m and £40m.
The impending sale of Nkunku does not directly relate to the pursuit of Garnacho because they play in different positions. Moving Nkunku out may create space for Chelsea to push for an attacking midfielder. They are interested in Barcelona’s Fermín López and RB Leipzig’s Xavi Simons. Tottenham are considering whether to bid for the latter.
Leipzig were one of the teams pushing for Nkunku, who left the Bundesliga side for £52m in 2023. The 28-year-old has struggled for form and fitness at Chelsea. He picked up a knee injury during his first pre-season and was unable to build momentum. He had a bit-part role under Maresca last season, although he made contributions to Chelsea winning the Club World Cup this summer.
Bayern Munich held talks over Nkunku but were interested only in a loan. Chelsea wanted a permanent sale. Their position is slightly different on Nicolas Jackson, who may be allowed to go on loan if the deal contains an obligation to buy. Bayern, Aston Villa, Napoli, Juventus and Newcastle are tracking the striker. Roma, Leipzig and a host of English sides are monitoring the 19-year-old winger Tyrique George.
