AC Milan close to signing Christopher Nkunku in major summer coup
AC Milan are finalising a deal to sign French forward Christopher Nkunku from Chelsea, according to widespread reports in Italy and England. The transfer, which is understood to be at an advanced stage, would see the 28-year-old commit to a long-term contract at the San Siro as the Rossoneri make a significant statement in the summer market. While an official fee has not been disclosed, negotiations are believed to have centered on a figure in the region of €40 million.
According to Sky Sport Italia, personal terms have been agreed with the player, who is keen on a fresh challenge after a mixed spell in the Premier League. The move represents a major coup for Milan's management, who have identified Nkunku as a versatile attacking piece capable of operating across the frontline for manager Massimiliano Allegri. The deal is expected to be completed in the coming weeks, pending the finalisation of formalities between the clubs.
Nkunku's time at Chelsea was hampered by persistent injury issues, limiting his impact after a high-profile move from RB Leipzig in 2023. When fit, however, he has shown flashes of the devastating form that made him one of Europe's most sought-after talents, combining technical skill, intelligent movement, and a proven goal threat from both central and wide areas. His potential arrival signals a shift in Milan's transfer strategy towards acquiring established, high-caliber players in their prime years.
For Milan, the pursuit of Nkunku aligns with a desire to add more clinical finishing and creative depth to a squad that has relied heavily on the contributions of Rafael Leao and Olivier Giroud. The Frenchman's adaptability offers Allegri multiple tactical options, potentially forming part of a dynamic attack alongside other new signings. His experience in the Bundesliga and Champions League is also viewed as a valuable asset for a club aiming to consistently compete in the latter stages of European competition.
From Chelsea's perspective, the sale fits into a broader squad restructuring under new manager Enzo Maresca, with the club looking to balance the books after several windows of heavy investment. Allowing Nkunku to depart represents a calculated risk, betting on the fitness of other attacking options while recouping a portion of their initial outlay. For the player, it is a chance to reignite a career that once seemed destined for the very top, with regular Serie A football providing the platform to return to his best form.
The transfer, once confirmed, will immediately elevate expectations for Milan's forthcoming season, placing them firmly among the contenders for the Scudetto. It also underscores the growing financial and sporting power of Italian clubs in the transfer market, capable of attracting talent from the wealthier Premier League. Nkunku's integration into Allegri's system will be one of the key narratives of the pre-season, as Milan look to build a side capable of challenging on all fronts.
