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Turkish powerhouse Fenerbahce has reportedly initiated formal negotiations with Italian club AC Milan to sign French forward Christopher Nkunku, aiming to boost its attacking options ahead of the second half of the Super Lig campaign.
The Yellow Canaries are reportedly exploring alternatives to Moroccan striker Youssef En-Nesyri, with Nkunku emerging as the leading candidate to reinforce their frontline due to his versatility and proven top-flight experience, according to both Italian and Turkish media.
According to sources close to the matter, AC Milan is asking €35 million ($41.07 million) for the 26-year-old striker, who joined from Chelsea last summer in a €37 million deal. The Rossoneri are reportedly open to offers that would avoid a financial loss on their investment.
At the same time, Fenerbahce has already begun negotiating to lower the price, Italian sports daily La Gazzetta Dello Sport reported.
Club insiders suggest that Milan remains undecided on Nkunku’s future and may delay any final decision until after the upcoming matches, depending on his performance, it added.
Nkunku, 28, rose to prominence during the 2022–2023 season at German club Leipzig, scoring 23 goals and providing 9 assists in 36 matches under then-coach Domenico Tedesco, who now leads the Turkish side.
Following that standout campaign, Chelsea signed him for €60 million, but persistent injuries prevented him from replicating his form in England.
Nkunku is known for his versatility in attack. In addition to playing as a traditional number 9, he has featured across the forward line, including on both wings and as an attacking midfielder.
His acceleration, close control, and finishing ability have made him one of Europe’s most sought-after attacking talents in recent years.
During this season, he has made 14 appearances across all competitions, scoring just one goal and providing two assists. Despite showing flashes of his technical ability, his overall impact has been limited, raising questions about his role in Milan’s attacking setup and fueling speculation over a potential mid-season transfer.
Fenerbahce manager Domenico Tedesco is believed to be playing a key role in the club’s pursuit of Nkunku, Turkish sports journalist Yagiz Sabuncuoglu said.
If the transfer is finalized, Tedesco reportedly plans to deploy Nkunku as both a central striker and a supporting forward in dual-striker formations.
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