Liverpool and Newcastle United have emerged as frontrunners in the race to secure the services of Chelsea forward Christopher Nkunku, whose future at Stamford Bridge hangs in the balance after an injury-ravaged season.
Nkunku, who joined the Blues in the summer of 2023 for a reported £52 million from RB Leipzig, has struggled to make a sustained impact in the Premier League.
Despite arriving with high expectations and a reputation as one of Europe’s most exciting attacking talents, his debut campaign in England has been blighted by persistent fitness issues, particularly involving his knees and hamstrings.
The 27-year-old French-Congolese international managed only sporadic appearances throughout the season, with his last consistent run of form coming before February. Since then, he has been largely absent from the Chelsea squad, prompting speculation over his future in West London.
According to French outlet Foot Mercato, both Chelsea and Nkunku are now open to exploring potential exit options this summer. This development has alerted several top European clubs, with Liverpool and Newcastle among those monitoring the situation closely.
Liverpool, under the leadership of newly-appointed manager Arne Slot, are believed to be seriously considering a move. The Reds, fresh from clinching the Premier League title, may be in need of fresh attacking options amid uncertainty over the futures of Darwin Núñez, Diogo Jota, and Luis Díaz.
Federico Chiesa, also linked to Anfield, remains a wildcard. Nkunku’s ability to operate across multiple attacking roles, including midfield and forward positions, makes him an attractive candidate to fill any impending gaps in the squad.
However, Liverpool are not alone in their pursuit. Newcastle United are also understood to be weighing a move for the Frenchman. The Magpies, with ambitions to bolster their offensive arsenal ahead of next season, are reportedly assessing the financial feasibility of lodging a formal offer.
Their interest signals an intent to challenge the Premier League’s traditional heavyweights in the transfer market and could add a new dynamic to the competition for Nkunku’s signature.
Further complicating matters is interest from the continent. Bayern Munich, long-time admirers of Nkunku, remain keen on bringing him back to Germany.
The Bundesliga giants, who previously attempted to lure the Frenchman in the January transfer window, are said to be considering renewing their approach.
A return to the Bundesliga — where Nkunku enjoyed a prolific stint, netting 58 goals over his final two seasons with Leipzig — might offer the forward a more familiar environment to recapture his best form.
While Chelsea have yet to confirm their stance publicly, the club’s openness to a potential sale suggests that negotiations could advance quickly should a suitable offer materialise.
Nkunku’s injury history will undoubtedly be a consideration for interested parties, but his proven talent and versatility ensure that he remains a compelling option for top clubs seeking attacking reinforcements.
As the summer transfer window approaches, Nkunku’s name is likely to feature prominently in headlines. With interest from both England and Germany intensifying, the coming weeks could determine whether the French-Congolese forward’s next chapter will be a revival in the Premier League — or a return to familiar territory in the Bundesliga.
