Newcastle United lead race to sign AC Milan forward Christopher Nkunku
Newcastle United have emerged as the frontrunners to sign AC Milan forward Christopher Nkunku as manager Matthias Jaissle looks to bolster his attacking options ahead of the new Premier League season.
The Magpies are keen to add a prolific talisman to their squad after previous investments in Nick Woltemade and Yoane Wissa failed to adequately replace the departed Alexander Isak.
The 28-year-old French international only joined the Italian giants from Chelsea last summer in a deal worth £35m, but he has struggled to cement a regular starting position.
After managing just seven Serie A goals and three assists, the versatile attacker is reportedly keen to leave the San Siro following a difficult pre-season under Ruben Amorim.
Serious option for the Magpies
French outlet Foot Mercato claims the Tyneside club are a very serious option for the former Parisian, though Borussia Dortmund and his former employers RB Leipzig are also monitoring the situation.
Sky Sports journalist Keith Downie has confirmed that the player’s representatives have offered him to the English club, who are currently weighing up a move.
“Nkunku has been offered to Newcastle who haven’t made a decision yet, he’s also been offered to a couple of other clubs,” Downie stated.
“I think Jaissle would be interested in him if there was an opportunity.”
Jaissle’s search for a number 10
The incoming head coach favours a 4-2-3-1 formation and is actively seeking a dynamic presence to operate behind the central striker.
During his highly successful 2022-23 Bundesliga campaign, the French forward thrived in exactly that role, plundering 16 goals and providing six assists.
Following a recent friendly defeat to Everton, the Newcastle boss publicly expressed concern about his squad’s strength in depth.
“We handle these things internally, we are aware of what we need and there is still some time,” Jaissle noted.
“We use every day in the best possible way to make progress and the same will be in the transfer market, hopefully things also progress.”
To fit into the new manager’s system, any incoming advanced midfielder must meet several specific tactical criteria:
- Ability to operate between the lines and make penetrating runs behind the defence.
- Exceptional creativity to deliver the final pass and set up goalscoring opportunities.
- Dynamic flexibility to drift across the pitch rather than staying rigidly in position.
- High aggression out of possession to execute a high-pressing, quick-closing defensive shape.
The North East outfit will open their domestic campaign by hosting Liverpool at St James’ Park on Sunday afternoon, hoping to finalise their squad before the transfer window shuts.