Nkunku Prioritizes Leipzig Return Over Newcastle Move

Christopher Nkunku is pushing for a return to familiar ground rather than a Premier League gamble.

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, the French forward has made RB Leipzig his clear priority over Newcastle United, with Milan prepared to let him go on loan with an option to buy.

Leipzig in front, Newcastle trailing

Both Leipzig and Newcastle are in talks with Milan, but the race is tilting heavily towards Germany. Gazzetta’s Milan reporter Luca Bianchin reports that the Magpies sit “well behind” Leipzig in the chase for the former Chelsea attacker.

Nkunku knows Leipzig inside out. He shone there between 2019 and 2023 before earning his move to Chelsea, and the prospect of stepping back into a system and a club that already suits him has strong appeal as he weighs up his next step.

At Milan, the story never truly caught fire.

One season, modest return

Nkunku arrived at San Siro from Chelsea a year ago in a deal worth €37m plus add-ons, carrying the weight of expectation that comes with that kind of fee. The numbers did not match the investment.

Eight goals in 35 competitive appearances last season left Milan wanting more from a player expected to be a difference-maker in the final third. With Ruben Amorim now shaping the squad for next season, Nkunku does not feature in the Portuguese coach’s plans.

That reality has opened the door for Leipzig to move decisively.

Deal structure taking shape

Talks between Milan and RB Leipzig are advanced, with both clubs expected to finalise a loan agreement with an option to buy in the coming days. As it stands, Leipzig would cover Nkunku’s €5m salary for the 2026-27 campaign.

For Milan, it offers a way out of an awkward fit. For Leipzig, it is a chance to bring back a proven performer on terms that limit the immediate risk.

And for Nkunku, it is a crossroads: a return to the club where he built his reputation, and perhaps one last shot at proving he can still be the attacking force Europe once feared.