Christopher Nkunku has left AC Milan after just 18 months to rejoin RB Leipzig on a season-long loan deal with an option to buy.
The 28-year-old French forward returns to Leipzig, where he had his most prolific seasons prior to joining AC Milan, scoring 70 goals in 172 games through 2023. Nkunku's spell at Leipzig earned him a call-up to France's squad for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
Nkunku's time at AC Milan was marked by a significant drop in form, with just seven goals scored in Serie A last season. The Italian club missed out on a Champions League place and will play in the Europa League instead. Leipzig, however, has the financial muscle to invest in new talent, with the club selling teenage winger Yan Diomande to Real Madrid for a reported 125 million euros ($146 million).
The deal allows Nkunku to return to a familiar environment, where he can compete in the Champions League with Leipzig. The French forward will be joined by new coach Martín Demichelis, who is taking charge of the club for the first time.
Nkunku's departure from AC Milan comes as a surprise, given his initial promise in the Italian league. However, the French forward's form declined significantly during his time in Serie A, and Leipzig's offer may have been too good to turn down.
The move will give Nkunku the opportunity to revive his career, which has been marred by injury in the past. He was injured in training before the 2022 World Cup and replaced by Randal Kolo Muani. The 28-year-old will now look to regain his place in the France squad, which he last represented in World Cup qualifiers last November.
Nkunku's return to Leipzig will be closely watched by fans and pundits alike. The French forward's form will be crucial in determining whether the club can challenge for major honors in the coming season. With a season-long deal in place, Nkunku will have the opportunity to prove himself once again in the German league.
Leipzig has a strong squad, and the addition of Nkunku will give them an added boost. The club's financial situation has improved significantly following the sale of Yan Diomande, and they will be able to invest in new talent to strengthen their squad.
Nkunku will now look to make a strong impact at Leipzig, and his form will be crucial in determining the club's fortunes in the coming season. The French forward's return to his former club is a significant development, and fans will be eager to see how he performs in the German league.
Source: Yahoo Sports
