Chelsea Beat Man United, Signed A Pre-Contract With RB Leipzig Star Christopher Nkunku

While Nkunku is not expected to arrive until next summer, the Blues have a deal in place for him to join Stamford Bridge, according to the Athletic, with owner Todd Boehly happy to pay his full release clause of £53m now to ensure they steal a march on their rivals.

The 24-year-old enjoyed a superb campaign last season as he scored 35 goals and set up 20 more in 52 appearances in all competitions during a sensational term for RB Leipzig on his way to being named Bundesliga player of the year.

His form saw him rewarded with a new two-year extension that keeps him at Leipzig until 2026 – but crucially it includes a release clause of £52.8m, which Chelsea has now pounced on.

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Should Chelsea confirm their deal for Nkunku it would continue their lavish spending under Boehly since he completed a £4.2bn takeover of the Blues this year.