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25 August 2026

RB Leipzig have officially announced the signing of French forward Christopher Nkunku, 28, from AC Milan on a loan deal with an option to buy, reportedly worth €28 million.

"We’re delighted to have Christo back with us," said Marcel Schafer, managing director for sport. "He has already shown the exceptional talent that he brings and that he can make the difference in matches. He knows the club, the city and the region, and his ability to play in several positions gives us extra options in attack.

"We were especially pleased to hear Christo say that he wanted to play for RB Leipzig again. Despite interest from other top clubs in Europe, he truly wanted to come back here. That shows the special bond he has with our club."

Nkunku, who returns after leaving for Premier League club Chelsea in 2023, said: "When I heard about the chance to join RB Leipzig, I immediately wanted to say yes. I’m very happy to be back here. I’m in excellent condition and want to help the team as quickly as possible, and I also can’t wait to play once again in front of our fans at the Red Bull Arena.

"My connection with RB Leipzig is very special. Even after leaving the club, I kept a close eye on everything that was happening here. I’m now ready to write a new chapter in my time at RBL.

"During my talks with the club, I could feel just how much the people in charge still value me and how much trust they have in me. That’s why Leipzig is exactly the right place for me to perform at my best."

During his first spell with the Saxony-based club, the Frenchman scored 70 goals and registered 56 assists in 172 appearances in all competitions. He helped Leipzig win their first-ever DFB-Pokal title in 2021/22 and defend it the following season, while also finishing as the Bundesliga’s top scorer with 16 goals.

He also claimed the 2021/22 Bundesliga Player of the Season award after scoring 20 goals and providing another 15 in 34 appearances under Jesse Marsch and Domenico Tedesco.

Nkunku is Leipzig’s third notable signing of the summer after Rocco Reitz from Borussia Monchengladbach for €20 million and Maxime Esteve from Burnley for €25 million. As Leipzig begin a new chapter under head coach Martin Demichelis, they have also completed deals for Ota Yamamoto for €500k and Orjan Nyland on a free transfer.