After his brilliant 2021/22 campaign, Christopher Nkunku has placed himself on the radar of Europe's biggest clubs!
The RB Leipzig star was one of the best players in the world last season, netting a whopping 35 goals in 50 appearances while racking up an additional 19 assists en route to being named the Bundesliga Player of the Season. As a result, the Frenchman has garnered attention from the likes of Chelsea, Manchester United, Liverpool, and former club PSG.
The Blues and the Red Devils, in particular, were said to be keen on a deal this summer but were priced out after Die Roten Bullen allegedly slapped a £100M ($122M) price tag on the winger. However, there have been some interesting developments since then, namely the Frenchman's new RB Leipzig contract.
Nkunku has officially put pen to paper on a new deal that will keep him with his current Bundesliga employers until 2026. This extension isn't necessarily a huge blow to his suitors as it brings both benefits and some drawbacks.
The biggest advantage is the release clause. What initially started as a rumor has now been confirmed: Nkunku has a clause in his new deal which could see him leave the German giants for $63M, which is just about half of the transfer fee RB Leipzig were allegedly demanding. That price tag would be a bargain for the aforementioned clubs given the numerous amount of wealth at their disposal.
Official and confirmed. Christopher Nkunku extends his contract with RB Leipzig until June 2026, deal now signed and sealed. #Leipzig
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 23, 2022
There's a release clause included in the new deal for €60m. pic.twitter.com/mjZMyrs85s
But what is the downside? As revealed by Sky Germany, this release clause will only kick in come next summer, meaning Chelsea and Manchester United will not be able to trigger it this summer. Given that both sides are undergoing transformation this summer, Tuchel's crew and Ten Hag's men could have done with the addition on Nkunku right now.
Will this two-year extension bring an end to their pursuit of the Frenchman? Only time will tell but it should be noted that both Premier League giants are exploring alternatives, with the London side eyeing Ousmane Dembele, Raphinha, and Richarlison while the Red Devils are chasing Ajax winger Anthony.
