Christopher Nkunku completes AC Milan switch in deal worth €42m as Chelsea recoup sizeable fee for unwanted Frenchman

After making a high-profile £52m ($70m) move from RB Leipzig in 2023, the 25-year-old faced a series of setbacks, including a serious knee injury in pre-season, which restricted him to just 11 Premier League appearances in his first season. Despite being fit again, Nkunku struggled to earn a regular spot in the starting XI, with many of his appearances coming in cup competitions. The writing was on the wall when he was excluded from the squad for the opening two games of this season, signalling that he was no longer in the manager's plans.

The sale of Nkunku also clears up space for Chelsea to pursue more transfer targets, including the potential signing of Alejandro Garnacho from Manchester United. Reports have surfaced that Chelsea are closing in on a £40m ($54m) deal for the Argentine forward.

During his time at Chelsea, Nkunku made 62 appearances, registering 18 goals and 5 assists across all competitions. Last season, he played in 43 matches, scoring 14 goals, and was involved in six games during the club’s Club World Cup campaign.

Milan’s first win of the new Serie A campaign came this past Friday against Lecce, and Nkunku could make his debut for the Italian giants after the international break. They are scheduled to host Bologna on September 14, and it’s expected that Nkunku will be integrated into the squad for that fixture.