Key Takeaways:
- Tottenham have shifted their attention to Christopher Nkunku after Eberechi Eze completed a £60million transfer to Arsenal
- Chelsea forward Nkunku, signed for £52m in 2023, has encountered injury setbacks and faces uncertain prospects at Stamford Bridge
- Spurs’ search for a creative attacker has intensified following James Maddison’s long-term injury
Tottenham Target Nkunku After Eze Move
Tottenham Hotspur are evaluating a potential move for Chelsea’s Christopher Nkunku as they look to augment their forward line, according to sources. Their pursuit comes after Crystal Palace’s Eberechi Eze completed a £60million transfer to Arsenal, prompting Tottenham to identify Nkunku as a primary alternative. No official offer has yet been made, but the French international is reportedly high on Spurs’ list.
Chelsea and Leipzig Factor Into Potential Deal
Christopher Nkunku, aged 27, transferred to Chelsea from RB Leipzig in 2023 for £52m. Nevertheless, he has struggled to cement a regular first-team place at Stamford Bridge, due in part to recurring injuries as well as stiff competition among Chelsea’s forwards. While Nkunku has exhibited moments of top quality during the 2024/25 campaign, his long-term future at Chelsea remains in doubt.
Sources have indicated that Nkunku would be open to a return to the Bundesliga, where Leipzig are interested in reuniting with their former player. Despite this, there have not yet been significant negotiations between Chelsea and Leipzig, leaving the opportunity available for Tottenham to explore a deal.
Spurs Seek Creativity After Maddison Injury
Tottenham’s urgency in the market has escalated following a long-term injury sustained by midfielder James Maddison, which leaves a creative void in Thomas Frank’s tactical setup. Nkunku’s proven ability to operate both as a forward and an attacking midfielder, in addition to his technical prowess and scoring instincts, align closely with Spurs’ requirements.
His record of 20 goals in 34 Bundesliga matches during the 2022/23 season with Leipzig showcases his capabilities, making him a potentially transformative addition to Tottenham’s attack.
Transfer Window Developments
Whilst Chelsea are reportedly hesitant to part with Nkunku to a Premier League rival, the club have not closed the door entirely. Nkunku’s lack of regular playing time could influence Chelsea’s willingness to engage in negotiations, and Tottenham may test their resolve as the window nears its conclusion.
Leipzig’s pursuit of their former striker adds further complexity to the situation. However, Tottenham’s drive to secure a top-four finish is fuelling their pursuit of the Frenchman. With both Eze’s move to Arsenal and Maddison’s injury, Thomas Frank will be eager to secure a high-impact signing to reinvigorate Spurs’ attacking threat as the summer transfer window reaches its final stages.
