Report: Chelsea stand firm as Inter Milan push for major transfer deal | OneFootball

Inter Milan Revive Christopher Nkunku Interest Amid Chelsea Uncertainty

Caught Offside report that Inter Milan have reignited their interest in Christopher Nkunku as the Italian club continue their pursuit of attacking reinforcements. Having initially looked at Ademola Lookman, Inter have now shifted their attention back to Nkunku, with sources indicating discussions have been reopened in recent days.

Chelsea’s position remains firm despite increasing outside pressure. The club are unwilling to sanction a simple loan move and will only consider deals involving a permanent transfer or an obligation to buy. Their valuation of Nkunku has dropped slightly, from €45 million to around €40 million, yet there is no appetite for a temporary arrangement.

As one source explained, “Bayern had been pushing to secure Nkunku on a loan deal with an option to buy, but both Chelsea and the player have been clear, a permanent transfer is the only acceptable outcome.”

Chelsea’s approach reflects both financial and footballing considerations. With the need to balance the books and reshape the squad, sanctioning another short-term loan without commitment does little to progress the club’s long-term objectives.

Photo: IMAGO

Player desire for long-term stability

Nkunku’s own perspective is equally decisive. Having endured a stop-start career in London due to injury setbacks, he is determined to find stability at a club that offers trust and continuity. His desire is to settle into a long-term project where his attacking qualities can be consistently showcased.

“Christopher Nkunku has no future at Chelsea,” one report summarised, with sources stressing his clear preference for a permanent departure. Last season he scored 15 goals in all competitions despite limited appearances, underlining the threat he brings when fit.

Those close to the player have suggested that he does not want to waste another year adapting to a temporary environment. Instead, he is motivated to rebuild his reputation as one of Europe’s most dynamic attacking midfielders, a role he thrived in during his time at RB Leipzig.

Inter Milan weigh up opportunity and risk

Inter’s recruitment team now face a decision. The club recognise that Nkunku’s availability could represent both an opportunity and a risk. His technical skill and finishing ability make him an attractive option, particularly as Simone Inzaghi looks to strengthen his attacking depth. Yet his injury record leaves open questions about reliability.

Discussions are ongoing within the Inter hierarchy, who have requested detailed information about the conditions of a potential deal. The outcome may depend on whether Inter believe the €40 million asking price fairly reflects both his upside and his risk profile.

Caught Offside note that competition could intensify quickly if Inter delay. Bayern Munich have already expressed an interest, while other clubs across Europe are monitoring developments closely. With the transfer window entering its final weeks, timing will be key for any move.

Broader implications for Chelsea and the market

Chelsea’s strategy in this window underlines their determination to assert control over player exits. Unlike some previous summers where temporary loans became a default option, this summer’s focus has shifted to permanence and stability. Allowing valuable assets such as Nkunku to depart on simple loans no longer fits the model.

For the wider market, Nkunku’s situation could set the tone for how other clubs handle complex deals involving injury-prone yet high-potential players. Inter’s decision to re-enter the race illustrates the persistent allure of talent that, if nurtured correctly, can transform attacking options for a leading side.

Ultimately, the next steps rest on Inter’s internal evaluation and whether they are willing to take on both the financial and sporting responsibility of reviving Nkunku’s career at the elite level.

Photo IMAGO

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

From a Chelsea fan’s perspective, this report evokes mixed emotions. On one hand, Nkunku is a player with undoubted talent who showed glimpses of his class whenever fit. Fifteen goals across a disrupted season highlight just how effective he can be in the final third. However, his frequent injuries have left supporters frustrated, never allowing him to fully integrate into the team’s tactical framework.

There is also a sense that Chelsea need clarity moving forward. The club’s refusal to sanction a loan reflects a desire to end this cycle of uncertainty. Fans want to see players committed for the long haul, not filling temporary gaps. If Nkunku does not view Stamford Bridge as part of his future, then a clean break feels like the most logical path.

Supporters will, however, be cautious about losing yet another talented attacker without securing both fair value and a replacement. The €40 million figure feels reasonable in today’s market, but it is vital that Chelsea reinvest wisely. A departure of this magnitude cannot leave a void in creativity and goals.

Many fans would wish Nkunku well if he does depart, particularly if it offers him the stability he clearly craves. Ultimately, Chelsea must focus on building a squad of players who see their future in London. That unity and direction is what supporters believe will finally lead the club back to consistent success.