Christopher Nkunku returns to RB Leipzig on loan

Christopher Nkunku has returned to RB Leipzig on loan from AC Milan, three years after leaving the Bundesliga club.

Leipzig have reportedly paid a €3.5 million loan fee and secured an option to buy the 28-year-old French attacker for €27 million.

Nkunku made no secret of his desire to come back, despite interest from other leading European teams. Sporting director Marcel Schäfer said: “We were especially pleased by how clearly Christo expressed his wish to play for RB Leipzig again. Despite interest from other top European clubs, he was determined to return. That shows his special connection to our club.”

The forward previously played for Leipzig between 2019 and 2023, registering 70 goals and 56 assists in 172 competitive matches. His outstanding 2021/22 season brought 35 goal contributions in 34 Bundesliga appearances and the German Footballer of the Year award.

Nkunku joined Chelsea for €60 million in 2023 before moving to Milan last summer for €37 million. He struggled to establish himself at both clubs, however, making this return a chance to rediscover his best form.

Leipzig will hope their familiar surroundings can help Nkunku deliver the influence that once made him one of Germany’s most feared attackers.