Newcastle United have emerged as the clear favourites to sign Milan striker Christopher Nkunku in a reported €30million deal. The France international is hoping to return to the Premier League just one year after leaving Chelsea, having been excluded from first-team training by manager Ruben Amorim following the club’s pre-season tour.
The Rossoneri purchased Nkunku from Chelsea for €37million plus add-ons only 12 months ago, but are now willing to sanction his departure despite the financial loss. Aston Villa remain interested in the 27-year-old, though they trail Newcastle in the race for his signature. Roma, Borussia Dortmund and RB Leipzig have also reportedly monitored the situation.
Milan reshape squad amid spending drive
Nkunku’s exit forms part of a necessary funding operation after Milan committed at least €50million including add-ons to sign winger Diego Moreira from RC Strasbourg. The Italian club must raise substantial funds through player sales to balance their transfer accounts.
Defender David Odogu will also depart, joining French club Toulouse on a one-season loan deal.
Gimenez set for Porto switch
In a separate development, Mexican striker Santiago Gimenez is close to completing a loan move to FC Porto with an option to buy set at €20million. Porto paid €30.2million plus bonuses to sign Gimenez from Feyenoord in February 2025, and view the loan arrangement as the most viable method of recovering their investment.
The transfer depends partly on Roma completing a deal for Porto forward Rodrigo Mora. Once that move is finalised, Gimenez is expected to secure his switch to the Portuguese side.