Abdulhafiz TeslimNewcastle United have reportedly reached an agreement to sign Christopher Nkunku from AC Milan in a major late move that could significantly strengthen Matthias Jaissle’s attacking options.
The Magpies are understood to have agreed a deal worth around £28.5 million for the French forward, with Nkunku now expected to travel to Newcastle to complete the final stages of the transfer.
The development represents a dramatic turnaround in the player’s future. Nkunku only joined Milan last summer after leaving Chelsea, but his time at the Italian club has failed to develop as expected. Milan have now made the former RB Leipzig star available for transfer after he was left out of new head coach Ruben Amorim’s plans.
Reports in Italy have previously indicated that Milan were looking for around €30 million for Nkunku, while Newcastle emerged as one of several clubs interested in securing his services.
However, the latest development suggests Newcastle have now moved ahead of the competition and agreed terms for a player who could bring considerable versatility and experience to Jaissle’s squad.
Nkunku is reportedly excited about the opportunity to work under Jaissle and make a return to the Premier League. His ability to operate as a central striker, attacking midfielder or from wider positions could make him particularly valuable to Newcastle as the new manager continues to shape his team.
The 28-year-old has already experienced English football during his spell at Chelsea, although his time at Stamford Bridge was disrupted by injuries and inconsistent opportunities. Before moving to England, Nkunku established himself as one of Europe’s most dangerous attacking players at RB Leipzig, where his goalscoring and creative ability attracted widespread attention.
His Milan spell produced eight goals and three assists in 35 official appearances, but he struggled to become a regular first-choice player. With Amorim deciding that the Frenchman was not part of his plans, Milan have been prepared to sanction his departure after just one season.
Newcastle’s interest is understandable given the changes taking place at St James’ Park. Jaissle has inherited a squad that requires significant rebuilding, particularly after several high-profile departures and a summer in which the club have had to carefully manage their recruitment strategy.
Nkunku could provide an immediate injection of quality and experience. His versatility would also give Jaissle more tactical options, especially if the German coach wants to use a system that allows attacking players to interchange positions.
Recent reports had suggested Newcastle were still discussing a potential move rather than having completed an agreement, with Milan demanding a fee in the region of £30 million. The reported £28.5 million agreement would therefore represent a significant step forward if the latest information is confirmed.
The player’s willingness to join could prove equally important. Nkunku is said to be enthusiastic about the prospect of working with Jaissle, and that personal motivation could help Newcastle complete the deal quickly.
With the transfer window approaching its conclusion, Newcastle have little time to waste. A successful move for Nkunku would give Jaissle another experienced attacking option and potentially one of the most technically gifted players in his squad.
If the medical and final contractual formalities are completed as expected, Nkunku could soon be officially unveiled as a Newcastle United player.
For the Magpies, the signing would represent a statement of intent — and for Nkunku, it could be the opportunity to revive his Premier League career and rediscover the form that once made him one of Europe’s most sought-after forwards.
Abdulhafiz Teslim
