Journalist – Chelsea plan major shake-up with Nkunku and Simons moves | OneFootball

Chelsea weighing Nkunku sale amid Leipzig interest

Chelsea and RB Leipzig have held exploratory talks over a potential double movement in the transfer market involving Christopher Nkunku and Xavi Simons, according to TalkSport. Discussions have centred on Leipzig’s desire to re-sign Nkunku, who left the Bundesliga club in summer 2023 for a £52 million switch to Stamford Bridge.

The 26-year-old forward has struggled for consistent minutes in London, and with Chelsea open to reshaping their attacking options, his departure is now viewed as a realistic outcome. Leipzig’s stance remains firm on valuation, with their asking price not dropping significantly due to concerns over recording a book loss. However, sources indicate a club-to-club agreement is plausible should Nkunku be open to returning — a move that would see him forego European football next season.

Alongside Nkunku, Leipzig have also raised interest in Tyrique George and Carney Chukwuemeka during conversations over Simons. Any departure from Chelsea for Nkunku or another player would run separately to negotiations for the Dutch international, but the two sets of talks are understood to be linked by broader squad planning.

Chelsea’s transfer priorities and potential knock-on moves

Chelsea’s long-term strategy this summer includes offloading both Nkunku and fellow forward Nicolas Jackson. Such moves would free up space and funds to pursue primary targets — notably Simons and Manchester United winger Alejandro Garnacho.

Garnacho is believed to be keen on a switch to Stamford Bridge, though United are holding out for a fee of around £50 million. Chelsea are aiming for a lower figure, aware that United are focused on outgoings in the closing stages of the window.

Photo: IMAGO

Financial considerations shaping Simons negotiations

Leipzig’s valuation of Simons sits close to €70 million, while Chelsea are seeking to structure a deal closer to €60 million. The Dutchman only completed a permanent move from Paris Saint-Germain to Leipzig in January for €50 million plus €30 million in potential add-ons. How many of those bonuses have been activated will be key in determining his final price tag.

Simons is understood to be enthusiastic about joining Chelsea, having been convinced by manager Enzo Maresca’s vision for an evolving attacking setup. The player is now waiting to see if the two clubs can bridge the gap in negotiations before the window closes.

Manager’s vision driving Chelsea’s summer rebuild

Maresca is reshaping Chelsea’s forward options to create a more fluid, versatile front line. The recruitment of Simons, paired with Garnacho’s pace and direct style, would mark a significant change from the current attacking structure. Outgoings such as Nkunku would be a major component of that rebuild, giving Chelsea both financial and tactical flexibility heading into the new campaign.