Milan are set to feature Christopher Nkunku and Samuel Chukwueze as their starting wingers this season, according to reports from Italy. The moves come amid uncertainty surrounding the futures of Rafael Leão and Christian Pulisic, with both players potentially departing the club during the current transfer window.
Leão recently expressed a desire for a new challenge in a Portuguese television interview, sparking speculation about his potential exit. While his future remains unresolved, Nkunku is poised to take a leading role on the left wing. The former Chelsea player has reportedly returned in excellent physical condition, having dedicated time to training even before joining the team’s pre-season preparations. Nkunku’s first stint in Milan last year was hampered by a late arrival following a protracted departure from Chelsea, but he is expected to be fully integrated into Paulo Fonseca’s system this time around.
On the right flank, Chukwueze will be a key figure. Fonseca specifically highlighted the Nigerian international’s qualities during his presentation, stating the club needs players capable of taking on opponents in one-on-one situations and praising Chukwueze’s overall abilities. The coach intends to study and develop the player further. Despite a previous loan spell to Fulham where he scored three goals and provided four assists in 25 appearances, Chukwueze is considered a valuable asset by the Milan hierarchy.
Pulisic, currently recovering from a fractured fibula, remains a player highly regarded by the club’s ownership and Fonseca. The American international is seen as a long-term asset, but his injury will delay his return to the starting lineup. In his absence, Nkunku and Chukwueze are expected to form an explosive attacking partnership, offering a more dynamic and powerful threat than the previous pairing of Leão and Pulisic. The formation of this new partnership could reshape Milan’s attacking approach, providing Fonseca with greater tactical flexibility.
Both Nkunku and Chukwueze are expected to play a key role in Milan’s upcoming pre-season friendlies, including a high-profile derby match in Australia. The club anticipates Leão will rejoin the squad later in July, but even if reinforcements arrive, Nkunku is likely to have established himself as a key player in Fonseca’s plans by the start of the Serie A season.
