Newcastle ‘well behind’ RB Leipzig in race for Nkunku, says Milan expert | OneFootball

La Gazzetta dello Sport confirms that Christopher Nkunku prefers a return to RB Leipzig to a move to Newcastle United, with Milan ready to part ways with the Frenchman on loan, with an option to buy.

French striker Nkunku is getting closer to a return to RB Leipzig, where he already played from 2019 to 2023.

Nkunku close to RB Leipzig return despite Newcastle talks

Nkunku is not part of Ruben Amorim’s plans for next season, and both Leipzig and Newcastle are in talks with Milan.

According to the latest update from Gazzetta’s Milan reporter Luca Bianchin, however, the Magpies are ‘well behind’ Leipzig in the race for the ex-Chelsea striker, who has only spent one season at San Siro, having joined Milan a year ago from the Blues.

Nkunku only scored eight goals in 35 competitive appearances for Milan last season after a move worth €37m plus add-ons.

GENOA, ITALY – MAY 17: Christopher Nkunku of Milan scores a goal on a penalty kick during the Serie A match between Genoa CFC and AC Milan at Stadio Luigi Ferraris on May 17, 2026 in Genoa, Italy. (Photo by Simone Arveda/Getty Images)

According to the report, Milan and Leipzig are expected to finalise a loan deal with an option to buy in the coming days, with Leipzig paying the striker’s €5m salary for 2026-27.

Leipzig have also sent Eljif Elmas on loan to Atalanta, with La Dea confirming the deal just a few minutes ago.