Bundesliga News

Borussia Dortmund and RB Leipzig Eyeing Christopher Nkunku's Return

August 15, 2026Pablo Navarro3 мин

According to reports from L'Équipe, both RB Leipzig and Borussia Dortmund are showing interest in former Leipzig striker Christopher Nkunku. The 28-year-old forward could be on the verge of a Bundesliga comeback as AC Milan is reportedly considering parting ways with him after just one season. Due to his current salary, a loan move appears to be the most probable scenario.

Nkunku joined AC Milan from Chelsea last summer for approximately €37 million. Despite the short duration of his stay, his uncertain future opens up the possibility of a reunion with RB Leipzig. This situation echoes discussions from the previous summer when Chelsea and RB Leipzig reportedly explored a potential player swap involving Nkunku and Xavi Simons.

Borussia Dortmund is currently re-evaluating their attacking targets after ceasing their pursuit of Köln winger Said El Mala. Nkunku's versatility, being able to play as an attacking midfielder, a second striker, or across the attacking line, would provide a significantly more experienced option. However, his wage demands could pose a considerable challenge.

RB Leipzig, having recently failed to secure a deal for Hoffenheim attacker Fisnik Asllani, can offer Nkunku a familiar environment. Nkunku is well-acquainted with the club, enjoyed the most successful period of his career there, and was a highly popular figure among fans. While a return last summer did not materialize, the current circumstances have changed significantly with AC Milan reportedly ready to move him on.

The French attacker's impressive four-year tenure in Saxony remains a significant part of his career. Between 2019 and 2023, Nkunku scored 70 goals and provided 56 assists in 172 competitive appearances before his €60 million transfer to Chelsea.

Borussia Dortmund's potential interest represents a more surprising Bundesliga option. Currently, L'Équipe describes a return to Leipzig as merely "a possibility," while Dortmund is also said to be in contention for his signature.

English Translation:

Borussia Dortmund and RB Leipzig are reportedly monitoring former Leipzig striker Christopher Nkunku. The 28-year-old forward may be set for a return to the Bundesliga as AC Milan prepares to let go of the ex-RB Leipzig star after just one season. Given his salary, a loan is currently considered the most likely solution.

Nkunku only joined Milan from Chelsea last summer for approximately €37m. His uncertain future, however, raises the possibility of another reunion with Leipzig, a scenario that was previously discussed last summer when Chelsea and RB Leipzig considered a potential Nkunku-Xavi Simons swap.

Dortmund is re-evaluating their attacking targets after abandoning their prolonged pursuit of Köln winger Said El Mala. Nkunku's ability to play as a No.10, a second striker, or across the attacking line would offer a considerably more experienced alternative, although his wages could present an obvious complication.

Leipzig, having recently failed to secure a deal for Hoffenheim attacker Fisnik Asllani, can offer familiarity. Nkunku knows the club, enjoyed the best spell of his career there, and was a major fan favorite. Last summer’s proposed return ultimately didn't happen, but the circumstances have changed considerably now that Milan is reportedly prepared to move him on.

The French attacker remains closely associated with his outstanding four-year spell in Saxony. Nkunku scored 70 goals and provided 56 assists in 172 competitive appearances between 2019 and 2023 before completing a €60m move to Chelsea.

Dortmund represents the more surprising Bundesliga option. For now, L'Équipe describes a Leipzig return merely as "a possibility," while Dortmund is also said to remain in the race.