Conrad Harder is off the table, and new negotiations are underway. Chelsea`s French forward, Christopher Nkunku, is valued at 35-40 million euros, while Roma`s Ukrainian striker, Artem Dovbyk, is being considered for a loan move.
The transfer saga has rapidly inflated, much like the balloons Christopher Nkunku blows up after scoring a goal. In the last 24 hours, AC Milan has set aside the deal for Conrad Harder, the robust center-forward from Sporting Lisbon, and has instead accelerated its pursuit of Nkunku, Chelsea`s quick-footed attacker. These are two distinct player types. Is this the final turning point? Patience is key, as Milan`s transfer market has been unpredictable, marked by sudden changes in direction, and there are multiple candidates. Beyond Nkunku, attention is also on Artem Dovbyk, whom Milan might acquire permanently (if Nkunku doesn`t arrive) or, more likely, on loan from Roma. A double operation remains a possibility in this scenario.
How much does Nkunku cost?
Nkunku is currently the primary candidate, and updates on his situation are expected soon, one way or another. The opportunity is clear and compelling. Nkunku is a formidable player, having scored 58 goals for RB Leipzig between 2021 and 2023 across two seasons. He captivated the football world with his speed, quick execution, and ability to exploit off-balance defenders. Two years ago, Chelsea signed him for over 60 million euros, a classic Boehly-era move for a young, rising talent at a very high price. That price has since dropped significantly. While the deal is still being finalized, it`s plausible that Nkunku could transfer for 35-40 million euros. Chelsea has been seeking a solution for him since January and prefers a permanent sale, as current regulations only permit one loan spell, and several other players are also expected to leave the squad.
Nkunku and Chelsea
The relationship between Chelsea and Nkunku—specifically, between Maresca and Nkunku—has, as they say, gone south. It has deteriorated, perhaps even soured. Nkunku desires a move, and a Champions League-bound team would be ideal for him—Bayern Munich had previously inquired and held discussions—but AC Milan still holds significant appeal. Three key considerations arise: injuries, wages, and playing characteristics. Nkunku suffered an injury in summer 2023, missing a substantial part of that season. However, in the most recent campaign, he featured consistently, alternating between starting roles and bench appearances. Milan, cautious after the Boniface situation, is evaluating this carefully. His wage demands, given Chelsea`s standards, are another point to manage: it`s logical that an agreement around 5 million euros would be necessary. His playing characteristics, however, are inherent. Nkunku is certainly not a traditional target man but can play anywhere in attack. At Leipzig, he operated as a central striker, and for Chelsea, he sometimes played as one of two support forwards behind a main striker. At Milan, he would provide pace, counter-attacking prowess, and unpredictability, though his ability to hold up play and bring others into the game is less pronounced.
Dovbyk and the Loan Option
Artem Dovbyk, on the other hand, is a pure number 9. AC Milan has inquired about the Roma striker
