Chelsea get Christopher Nkunku boost! AC Milan join race to sign forgotten forward with Frenchman set to become latest victim of Enzo Maresca cut

Serie A giants AC Milan are the latest club to have shown interest in out-of-favour Chelsea forward Christopher Nkunku as they have initiated contact to explore a deal with the Premier League club, according to Fabrizio Romano. Milan are looking to bolster their attack before the transfer window closes next Monday and have identified the French forward as a perfect fit for their squad.

Nkunku has been linked with a move away from Chelsea throughout the summer, with clubs like Bayern Munich, RB Leipzig and even Aston Villa showing interest in signing the France international. However, the major hurdle that remains in Nkunku's move is his reported €20m (£17m/$23m) salary that he earns in London.

Chelsea are looking to push out Nkunku, along with Nicolas Jackson, in this window, as that will greatly boost their pursuit of Xavi Simons from RB Leipzig. Simons has agreed on personal terms with the Blues, although talks have stalled for now.

Maresca's side, who are on high spirits following their 5-1 win over West Ham last weekend, will next face Fulham at home on Saturday.