Despite interest from Manchester United and Chelsea, Christopher Nkunku is poised to stay at RB Leipzig and sign a new contract.
The 24-year-old Frenchman has established himself as one of Europe’s best forwards, scoring 20 goals in 34 games in the Bundesliga last season.
His contract continues through 2024, and he is apparently being pursued by PSG, Bayern Munich, and Real Madrid, in addition to the Red Devils.
According to the Leipziger Volkszeitung, Nkunku will shortly sign a new contract with Leipzig, putting an end to rumors about his future this summer.
According to the article, his contract renewal will include a pay boost as well as a €60 million release clause.
United’s search for new forwards will be hampered by Nkunku’s choice to stay in Germany for at least another season.
The Manchester United giants were already dealt a setback this week when it was revealed that Liverpool had moved into first place in the race to recruit Darwin Nunez of Benfica.
After finishing sixth in the Premier League last season and going five years without a trophy, new manager Erik ten Hag is looking to boost his assault ahead of next season.
Meanwhile, the Dutchman’s squad has been weakened by the departures of Juan Mata, Jesse Lingard, and Edinson Cavani.
Nkunku is thought to have come highly recommended by interim manager Ralf Rangnick, who was surprised to learn he wasn’t on the scouting department’s radar.
Chelsea, in the meantime, have been linked with a move for the versatile forward and have evaluated him as a possible replacement for Raheem Sterling as Thomas Tuchel attempts to expand his squad.
He said: ‘It’s no secret. There are clubs interested in me. Yes, it’s flattering, but it’s also flattering to have a club like Leipzig do everything to keep me as well.
‘I’ll have to reflect well and make a decision. The World Cup is on the way and that’s another factor to take into account.’