Christopher Nkunku reportedly underwent a ‘secret’ medical at Chelsea last summer, ahead of a potential move to Stamford Bridge in 2023.
Nkunku has been on the radar of Europe’s top clubs after a brilliant season at RB Leipzig in 2021/22, in which the forward scored 35 goals and provided 20 assists in all competitions.
The 24-year-old’s performances saw him break into the France squad as Leipzig won the DFB-Pokal and earned Nkunku the Bundesliga Player of the Season accolade.
Despite transfer interest, he signed a new two-year contract extension at Leipzig, though the deal included a release clause of £52.8m that will become active next summer.
Bild are reporting that Chelsea have already made progress in a potential deal and Nkunku – who has also been linked with Manchester United and Bayern Munich – underwent a secret medical with the west Londoners last summer.
The examination was held in Frankfurt as Chelsea looked to gain an advantage in the race for his signature, with owner Todd Boehly willing to meet Nkunku’s release clause.
Graham Potter wants to add a forward to his ranks following the departures of Romelu Lukaku and Timo Werner last summer. The Blues have scored just eight goals in six league games this season.
