Chelsea set to complete Nkunku signing: The state of play
FT Desk
- 26 Oct 2022 19:00 BST
- 3 min read
Chelsea are set to complete the signing of Christopher Nkunku from RB Leipzig for next season, according to Fabrizio Romano.
Nkunku was one of the most wanted men in the past summer market, with Manchester United, Chelsea, Arsenal, Newcastle, AC Milan and PSG all following the French attacker.
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The 24-year-old ended up signing a new contract with Leipzig that will tie him to the club until 2026.
However, it has been widely reported in recent weeks that Chelsea have booked Nkunku for next summer.
Romano has confirmed that a deal for Nkunku is virtually in place.
What did Romano say about Nkunku?
“It’s important to mention that Chelsea have everything under control, he’s agreed in principle to join, he’s had a medical with Chelsea, and he’s waiting to sign his contract,” Romano wrote in his CaughtOffside column.
“Everyone who’s joining Chelsea all agree that Nkunku will be an excellent signing for the Blues.
“Just a reminder – Chelsea don’t plan to meet Nkunku’s €60m release clause, they plan to reach a different agreement.”
Nkunku was one of the breakout stars of European football last season, with the second striker scoring 35 goals in 52 games.
He has maintained his fantastic form this season, also, scoring 12 goals in 18 games in all competitions. He is also expected to be named in France’s World Cup squad for Qatar next month.
Nkunku has a release clause in his contract of just €60m, which will be valid starting from the summer of 2023.
But as Romano states, Chelsea plan to negotiate that down.
Nkunku joined Leipizg from PSG in 2019 and has since developed into one of the most exciting players in his position in Europe.
He was in fine form on Tuesday evening, scoring for Leipzig in their 3-2 win over Real Madrid in the Champions League.
