Newcastle United are keen to sign a player with a similar profile to Christopher Nkunku.
Christopher Nkunku has revealed why he opted to return to RB Leipzig amid interest from Newcastle United.
The Magpies reportedly enquired about signing the Frenchman after he was made available for transfer by AC Milan, with new boss Matthias Jaissle keen on recruiting a player of Nkunku’s profile. The 28-year-old is capable of playing as a No.10 or out wide, and has Premier League experience after playing for Chelsea between 2023-2025.
But rather than return to England, Nkunku has gone back to the club where he first made his name. During his last spell, Nkunku scored 70 goals in 172 appearances, a record that earned him a £52million move to Stamford Bridge.
Christopher Nkunku re-joins RB Leipzig
Nkunku struggled to make an impact at Chelsea and was sold to AC Milan last summer for £32million. A year in Italy and Nkunku has re-joined Leipzig on a season-long loan deal that includes a £25million option to buy.
"When I heard of the opportunity to join RB Leipzig, I immediately wanted to say yes,” said Nkunku. “I'm very happy to be back here. I'm in excellent shape and want to help the team as soon as possible, and I also can't wait to once again play in front of our fans at the Red Bull Arena.
“My connection to RB Leipzig is very special. Even after leaving the club, I continued to keep a close eye on what was happening here. I'm now ready to add a new chapter to my time here at RBL.
“During my discussions with the club, I could sense just how much the people in charge here still value me and how much trust they have in me. That's why Leipzig is exactly the right place for me to perform to my best.”
Newcastle United still active in the market
Newcastle are interested in Lille forward Matias Fernandez-Pardo but are unlikely to meet the French club’s £60million price tag.
Similar to Nkunku, the 21-year-old Belgian is capable of playing anywhere across the front three. He has featured at left and right wing for Lille, and ended last season playing through the middle.