Chelsea remains locked up in talks with Forward Zavi Simons’ Red Bull RegiPig, but the key to securing his signature is sending Christopher Nukank back to his previous club in a swap deal
Chelsea can include Christopher Nukank in any contract with Red Bull Leipzig forward Zabi Simons as the Blues bolsters their pursuit of the Dutch star. Nkunku joined Chelsea from Leipzig in 2023 for around £53 million, but the French struggled to identify the unit’s first team spot, but he also struggled with injuries.
According to the Guardian, who says the Bundesliga side is interested in reunion, he is ready for his return to the old club after not settling in West London. Nkunku emerged as one of Europe’s most exciting attackers during his time in Germany. He scored 70 goals from 172 appearances, including a high of 35 in a season, following the prolific 2021-22 campaign.
However, he has not scored a mark at Chelsea as he scored three goals in each of his previous two Premier League seasons.
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After the club signs Liam Delap and Joao Pedro, it becomes even more difficult for Nkunku to get game time on the bridge. He could be key to securing Simons, Chelsea’s next big transfer target in this window.
Leipzig already knows that he has lost Benjamin Sesco to Manchester United and that they are at risk of losing Simons, and must sign an alternative to the attack.
They consider Nkunku the man who fills that void and are thought to be able to negotiate a swap deal between the two players. Chelsea is worth nkunku for around £40 million despite his nightmare Stamford Bridge spell.
The talk is ongoing beyond Simons’ £610 million deal, according to the Guardian report. Dutch International took part in Leipzig permanently in January as two Loanstints and Chelsea may have to pay a “slight fee” if they want to get a man.
Nukank was previously a target for Manchester United as Reuben Amorim was looking for a new attacker, but the Red Devils now have Sesco in their ranks, so they no longer need to follow up on their interests.
Chelsea could also balance the book by selling Nicholas Jackson this summer, but cited a team that costs around £80 million for the Senegal star.
Manager Enzo Maresca is hoping to add more offensive talent above Simmons as he follows Manchester United winger Alejandro Garnacho’s move.
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