Chelsea have been warned that RB Leipzig's strong financial position could hand the German giants the upper hand in negotiations amid rival interest. The 24-year-old was heavily linked with a move to Stamford Bridge in the summer, but a move failed to materialise.
football.london understand that the Blues, who hold a long-term interest in Nkunku, were considering making a move for the France international in the summer, but they were put off by the German giants' €100million (£87.6m) asking price. Late into the window, the Frenchman penned a new deal at the Red Bull Arena, which - naturally - cast doubt as to whether an exit would be on the cards.
Though, it's understood that a €60million (£52.6m) release clause was inserted into the contract, which only becomes active in the summer, meaning Nkunku could leave for considerably less and save Chelsea in the region of £35million. And, according to The Athletic, the west Londoners have 'committed to pay' the aforementioned release clause to sign him in advance to avoid an inevitable transfer war.
The report states that Nkunku has signed a pre-contract agreement to arrive at Stamford Bridge in the summer after having already completed a medical. If the report is to be believed, then Potter is set to have the makings of a very strong side next season.
However, RB Leipzig boss Marco Rose has dismissed reports suggesting that his player has agreed aforementioned deal. He added that he's not paying attention to the 'speculation' regarding Nkunku's future.
With no confirmation one way or the other, the transfer race is still wide open. And Chelsea have been warned that the German side's strong financial position means that they're in no rush to find the best offer.
Speaking on BT Sport, Paul Lambert said: "The thing to remember is Leipzig have a lot of money, they don't need to sell him, they're so, so financially strong. Whether he goes to Chelsea, we don't know.
"Leipzig don't have to say, 'Chelsea, there you go, we can have him for another year', but he is strong, he will run behind, Werner - the same. He looks a different player."
Gordon Strachan added: "When you look at his history and what he's done, he's got the lot. He'll come and play short, use his strength, but if you play high, he'll run behind you, and that's the modern striker who can do both.
"The modern striker plays where the danger is and weaknesses in the team, he can smell where the weakness is, he's wonderful, great touch, powerful, can run. Apart from that, he's got nothing going for him."
READ NEXT:
Chelsea handed huge injury boost as key trio train ahead of Champions League clash vs AC Milan
Chelsea drop early team news hint ahead of AC Milan amid Graham Potter selection dilemma
Brave Todd Boehly backed to deliver Chelsea success after ending Roman Abramovich tradition
Chelsea excited by new deal to help Todd Boehly keep his promise on next generation of talent
What Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang learned from Ronaldo as Chelsea star prepares for Milan reunion
