RB Leipzig star Christopher Nkunku is set to become Graham Potter's first signing at Chelsea as Todd Boehly looks to strengthen the club's frontline further. 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 £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.
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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 strike force next season.
Upon signing an extension at Leipzig earlier this year, Nkunku said: "I'm pleased to continue wearing the RB Leipzig shirt. After our great achievement in winning the DFB-Pokal, it remained clear that my story here isn't over yet - we want more.
"I was really impressed with the club's efforts to keep me, so a big thanks goes to those responsible for the trust in me and especially to Oliver Mintzlaff, with whom I was always in close contact. RB Leipzig have made a name for themselves on the international stage in recent years and have shown time and again that we can compete for titles."
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