Christopher Nkunku new deal: Man Utd, Chelsea transfer plan over for now, but new deal sets enticing future release clause

Manchester United’s prospects of signing Christopher Nkunku this summer are over following confirmation that the star has signed a new deal with RB Leipzig.

The 24-year-old has underlined his qualities this season during a breathtaking campaign on a personal level. The Frenchman has fired home a staggering 28 goals and also weighed in with 15 assists, underlining his huge talent.

That form helped Leipzig reach the Europa League semi-finals, as well as winning the DFB-Pokal. They also finished fourth in the Bundesliga to qualify for the Champions League once again.

Indeed, it was little wonder to see Nkunku’s form bring him to the attention of some of the Premier League’s big hitters.

Both Manchester United and Chelsea are among those keen to sign, per reports. PSG are also reportedly keen.

Indeed, United boss Erik ten Hag was reportedly leading that chase in light of claims the Frenchman would welcome a move to Old Trafford.

Any deal would likely have cost Manchester United well in excess of £40m.

However, it first emerged earlier this month that Nkunku was in talks over a potential extension to his Leipzig deal.

Now it has been confirmed that he has agreed terms on a new deal to 2026.

His new deal guarantees Nkunku a significant pay-rise on the back of his exceptional season.

However, his new deal does contain a release clause which becomes active next summer.

As per a variety of sources, that is set at £51.6m (€60m) – which is likely to tempt his suitors again come 2023.

Announcing the new deal, Nkunku stated: “I’m pleased to continue wearing the Leipzig shirt. After our great achievement in winning the DFB-Pokal, it remained clear to me that my story here isn’t over yet. We want more.”

Man Utd may consider Christopher Nkunku next summer

The move to tie Nkunku down is a very clever ploy from Leipzig.

The new deal is a great way of rewarding the player for his extraordinary efforts this season. Furthermore, it also gives him the incentive to continue as he is and earn a huge future move away from Leipzig.

That £51.6m release clause will certainly not frighten any of the big clubs come summer 2023. As such, it would be little surprise to see that triggered come this time next year.

The exit fee also offers Leipzig a guarantee they won’t see the player depart for less than he is worth.

Thomas Tuchel wants Christopher Nkunku at Chelsea

Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel wants to sign Christopher Nkunku from RB Leipzig this summer

The Bundesliga club, however, does have a reputation of offloading their top talents for a huge fee and when the time is right.

For example, Naby Keita, Timo Werner and Dayot Upamecano have all left for handsome fees in recent times.

It would surprise no one if Nkunku is next, nor if it were United who come calling.

Meanwhile, United’s plans to offload Anthony Martial look destined to fail despite the club placing a ridiculously-low fee on his head.