According to Tuttomercatoweb, Inter Milan are considering Chelsea's Christopher Nkunku as a backup option to Ademola Lookman. A €45m deal could be on the table.
Inter Milan have been offered the chance to sign Christopher Nkunku from Chelsea, as they prepare contingency plans should their top attacking target Ademola Lookman prove unattainable this summer.
With Inter aiming to finalise a forward signing before their Serie A opener against Torino on August 25, Tuttomercatoweb reports that Nkunku is under active consideration — though opinions inside the club are divided.
Why Inter Are Considering Nkunku
While Atalanta’s Ademola Lookman remains Inter’s priority, negotiations have dragged on, and the club are now examining alternatives. Nkunku has been offered to Inter by intermediaries, and Chelsea are open to letting him leave, either permanently or via a loan with options.
The 26-year-old attacker is one of Chelsea’s highest earners, and the Blues are reportedly willing to drop their asking price to around €45m as part of a broader wage-cutting strategy.
“There’s internal debate at Inter — some admire Nkunku’s quality, but others are wary of his fitness record and salary,” reported Tuttomercatoweb.
Injury Doubts and Wage Concerns Cloud Deal
Nkunku’s injury-hit spell at Stamford Bridge is a concern for Inter’s technical staff. He missed most of last season due to knee and muscle injuries, and there are questions over whether he can regain the explosive form he showed at RB Leipzig.
However, Inter are also attracted by the potential to structure a loan or staggered fee arrangement, particularly if Lookman proves too expensive or unavailable.
Christopher Nkunku – 2024/25 Chelsea Stats
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 48 |
| Goals | 15 |
| Assists | 5 |
| Minutes Played | 2.326 |
| Injury Absences | 3 separate injuries |
Analyst Verdict
If Inter can keep Nkunku fit, he’s a match-winner in Serie A — capable of playing across the front three, drifting into midfield, or operating as a second striker. His versatility fits Cristian Chivu's system, but his recent medical record makes this a calculated risk.
A short-term loan or conditional buy could make sense for both sides, especially if Chelsea remain open to flexible terms.
Key Insights
- Inter are exploring Nkunku as a backup if Lookman deal fails
- Chelsea open to a €45m deal or structured loan
- Nkunku is Chelsea’s fourth highest-paid player
- Internal debate at Inter due to injury and cost concerns
- Decision likely before Serie A opener vs Torino on August 25
What’s Next?
With the Serie A season fast approaching, Inter are expected to accelerate their forward search. If the Lookman deal stalls further, formal talks with Chelsea over Nkunku could begin — with intermediaries already involved. A final decision is likely in the next 10 days, as Chivu pushes for squad clarity before August 25.
Should Inter take the risk on Nkunku — or hold out for Lookman?
1 Comment (last comment by Adem)
First read message
By Adem 5 Aug 2025 10:05
If we get 45M for Nkunku would be insane! I mean, he dont start for us and I do believe he has it in him but injuries, not willing to work hard 45M would be more then what we should get.
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