Christopher Nkunku’s search for a fresh start has taken him back to familiar surroundings. After spells with Chelsea and AC Milan, the French forward has completed a return to RB Leipzig for the 2026/27 season. The move offers him an opportunity to rebuild his career at the club where he became one of Europe’s most dangerous attacking players.

The deal includes a permanent option

According to AC Milan’s official announcement, Nkunku has joined Leipzig on loan until June 30, 2027. The agreement includes an option to make the transfer permanent, although Milan did not disclose the financial terms. Nkunku remains contracted to the Italian club until 2030.

According to José Carlos Menzel’s report for AS, Leipzig will pay a €3 million loan fee and can buy the forward for approximately €28 million. Milan reportedly paid €37 million to sign him from Chelsea in 2025. The purchase option is not described as mandatory, meaning Leipzig can assess his performances before making a long-term decision.

Leipzig witnessed his finest years

Nkunku first joined Leipzig from Paris Saint-Germain in 2019 and remained there until his move to Chelsea in 2023. He recorded 70 goals in 172 appearances across all competitions and helped the club win the German Cup twice. He also finished as the Bundesliga’s joint leading scorer in the 2022/23 season.

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His later spells failed to deliver the same continuity. Injuries disrupted his time at Chelsea, while his single season in Milan did not establish him as an indispensable starter. Returning to a system and environment he already understands could therefore offer the stability that has been missing since he left Germany.

Nkunku seeks the player he once was

“For me, Leipzig is the right place to return to my best,” Nkunku said when the transfer was announced. Sporting director Marcel Schäfer highlighted the forward’s versatility and said his desire to return had been clear despite interest from other major European clubs. Leipzig also needed another attacking option following Yan Diomande’s move to Real Madrid.

The transfer carries relatively limited immediate risk for Leipzig because the permanent clause remains optional. For Nkunku, however, the season could be decisive after two uneven periods away from the Bundesliga. He returns with greater experience, but also with the task of showing that the player who once dominated in Leipzig has not disappeared.

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