Newcastle Enters Unexpected Race for AC Milan Forward as Plans Become Clear

Newcastle United’s attack could still change before the summer transfer window closes, with Matthias Jaissle overseeing a squad that struggled for goals last season, has since lost Anthony Gordon to Barcelona, and hasn’t looked any good during the preseason.

Against that backdrop, the Magpies have been linked with several potential additions across the forward line, with another established attacker emerging out of left field as a possible target following a significant decision at AC Milan in putting six players on the market.

According to Matteo Moretto, Newcastle is among the clubs interested in Christopher Nkunku, with the 28-year-old expected to leave Milan after just one season at San Siro.

“RB Leipzig, Borussia Dortmund, and Newcastle are after Christopher Nkunku,” Moretto reported. “The French striker is leaving Milan and has also received calls from Spain and England.”

Nkunku only joined Milan from Chelsea for a reported €37 million (£32 million) last August, signing a contract through 2030. However, new Rossoneri head coach Ruben Amorim has made the France international available as part of a substantial reshaping of his squad.

Newcastle is consequently joining two of Germany’s biggest clubs in pursuing Nkunku, with Leipzig potentially offering the attacker a return to a familiar organization — Nkunku spent four seasons there before joining Chelsea in 2023, scoring 70 goals and providing 45 assists.

Moretto’s report, however, does not indicate that Newcastle has submitted an offer or entered negotiations with Milan for now, so the Magpies’ interest appears to remain at an earlier stage, if there’s one at all.

If the interest is real and the Magpies can find a way to land him, Nkunku would obviously provide Jaissle with considerable positional flexibility. The Frenchman has operated centrally as a striker and attacking midfielder for the most part, but he’s also played from wider positions during his career.

According to Sky Sport, via Milan News, AC Milan is looking for approximately €35 million to sanction Nkunku’s departure, potentially making him a relatively affordable option. For context, Newcastle paid a humongous €50 million fee for unproven Bazoumana Toure.

Would Nkunku be worth pursuing at around €30 million, or should Newcastle focus its remaining resources on other positions, namely midfield and defense? Share your thoughts below.