Christopher Nkunku rejected Manchester United, Newcastle before RB Leipzig return

Christopher Nkunku reportedly turned down approaches from Manchester United and Newcastle United before choosing a return to RB Leipzig, prioritising a familiar environment as he looks to revive his career.

The 28-year-old French forward had options in England during the summer transfer window, with both Premier League clubs seeking attacking reinforcements. However, despite their interest, Nkunku opted against a move to either side and instead agreed to return to the Bundesliga club where he previously developed into one of Europe’s most dangerous attackers.

Nkunku’s decision comes after a difficult spell since leaving Leipzig for Chelsea. His subsequent move to AC Milan also failed to produce the expected revival, with the forward managing only eight goals in 35 appearances.

Nkunku chooses familiar surroundings

The former Chelsea attacker has now returned to RB Leipzig on loan for the remainder of the 2026-27 season, hoping to rediscover the form that made him one of the most sought-after forwards in European football.

According to BILD, Manchester United and Newcastle both explored the possibility of signing Nkunku as they assessed their attacking options during the transfer window.

The Frenchman, however, was reportedly more attracted to the prospect of returning to Leipzig, where he enjoyed the most productive period of his career.

Nkunku joined Leipzig from Paris Saint-Germain in 2019 and subsequently established himself as a key figure for the German club. His performances earned him widespread recognition and eventually convinced Chelsea to invest heavily in bringing him to the Premier League.

Chelsea spell fails to meet expectations

His time in England, however, was disrupted by injuries and inconsistent form, preventing him from reproducing the level he had shown in Germany.

The move to AC Milan was intended to provide another opportunity to get his career back on track, but his eight goals in 35 appearances suggested the Frenchman was still some way from his best.

His decision to return to Leipzig therefore represents a calculated attempt to rebuild his confidence and rediscover the attacking qualities that once made him one of Europe’s most coveted forwards.

Rather than take up the challenge of joining another Premier League club, Nkunku has chosen a setting where he already knows the club, league and environment.

The move gives the Frenchman another chance to reset his career at a club where he previously thrived, while Leipzig will hope their former star can reproduce the form that made his first spell so successful.