Why Chelsea let go of Christopher Nkunku as AC confirms transfer

Vishal Bhawani

•
Why Chelsea let go of Christopher Nkunku as AC confirms transfer image

Chelsea have confirmed the sale of Christopher Nkunku to AC Milan in a deal worth €42 million ($49m). The French forward signed a five-year contract with the Serie A side, ending a difficult stay in West London.

Nkunku’s time at Chelsea never really took off. Signed from RB Leipzig in 2023 for a big fee, he arrived with high hopes but found himself on the sidelines more often than on the scoresheet.

A knee injury in his very first pre-season kept him out for months. By the time he returned, Chelsea had moved on, and he never secured a starting role under Enzo Maresca.

Even last season, when fully fit, Nkunku was used sparingly in the league. His 14 goals in 43 games across all competitions showed glimpses of his talent, but it wasn’t enough to change his fortunes.

The final blow came when he was left out of Chelsea’s squad for the opening two matches of the new campaign. From that moment, the exit door seemed closer than the penalty box.

📲 Follow The Sporting News on WhatsApp

What Nkunku’s departure really means for Chelsea

Letting go of Nkunku frees up space in Chelsea’s attack. As per reports suggest the club has successfully secured a £40m move for Manchester United winger Alejandro Garnacho.

The idea seems simple: out goes one forward who couldn’t find rhythm, in comes another with energy and promise.

Chelsea’s statement was short but respectful. “We thank Christo [Nkunku] for his efforts throughout his time at the club and wish him well as he begins a new chapter in his career,” the club said.

For AC Milan, this is a gamble that could pay off. They needed a new attacking option, and Nkunku may just rediscover the form that made him one of Europe’s most exciting players in Germany.

His possible debut against Bologna after the international break already has Milan fans buzzing.

For Chelsea, it’s another reminder that sometimes transfers don’t go to plan.

Chelsea news and related links

Vishal Bhawani

Vishal Bhawani is a sub-editor for the Affiliate Content team and a writer and sub-editor for the Football Wires team at The Sporting News. Based in Indore, India, he holds a Diploma in Operations and Management from Maharashtra University.

Before joining TSN in May 2024, Vishal contributed to Football Express and Six Sports and ran his own blog, Anfield Home, as a passionate Liverpool fan. An avid traveler, he follows multiple sports, including cricket, soccer, and tennis.