Transfer Centre

Chelsea 'complete deal for RB Leipzig forward Christopher Nkunku'

By Darren Plant, Senior Reporter | 17 December 2022

Chelsea 'complete Christopher Nkunku deal'

Chelsea reportedly finalise a deal for RB Leipzig forward Christopher Nkunku, who will allegedly move to Stamford Bridge ahead of 2023-24.

Chelsea have allegedly completed the transfer of RB Leipzig forward Christopher Nkunku, who is in line to join the club ahead of 2023-24.

The Blues were one of many teams who were heavily linked with the France international during the summer transfer window, a consequence of the attacker putting together remarkable figures last season.

As many as 35 goals and 20 assists came in all competitions, but RB Leipzig were successful in agreeing a contract extension with the player.

However, when speaking with their German counterparts, it was soon reported that Chelsea had discussed signing Nkunku at the end of this season.

Nkunku is said to have undergone a medical with Chelsea staff at the time of the negotiations ahead of a future switch to Stamford Bridge for £53m, his release clause.

Chelsea owner and chairman Todd Boehly pictured in the stands on August 27, 2022 © Reuters

Since then, Nkunku has been dealing with a knee injury, a torn ligament resulting in his withdrawal from the France World Cup squad.

Nevertheless, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Chelsea have proceeded to finalise the transfer of Nkunku.

Romano says that "all documents and contracts have been signed, it's 100% closed", the West Londoners seemingly winning the race for Nkunku at a time when they are currently struggling on the pitch.

Chelsea sit in eighth position in the Premier League standings, eight points adrift of fourth-placed Tottenham Hotspur in the race for Champions League qualification.

RB Leipzig's Christopher Nkunku pictured on November 24, 2021 © Reuters

Graham Potter's side have also netted just 17 times in 14 matches, with the trio of Kai Havertz, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Armando Broja having just eight goals between them in all competitions.

In comparison, Nkunku has contributed 16 strikes and three assists from 22 outings, starring in a Leipzig side which won 11 of their 13 matches before the World Cup break.

Despite their level of interest in Nkunku, there was never any possibility of Chelsea pushing through a January move in order to cope with the season-ending knee injury suffered by Broja.

Instead, it was reported by Romano earlier this week that Chelsea intend to push through a deal for Molde forward David Datro Fofana.

Chelsea resume competitive action when they take on Bournemouth in the top flight on December 27.