Chelsea now have an agreement to sign RB Leipzig forward Christopher Nkunku ‘in place’, according to CBS journalist Ben Jacobs.

The Lowdown: Contrasting claims

The Frenchman still has four years remaining on his contract at the Red Bull Arena, but recent reports have credited the Blues with an interest in bringing him to the Premier League.

The Bundesliga giants, however, have shut down claims that a move between the two parties is in progress, stating that it’s nothing more than a ‘rumour’, though an update has now emerged contrary to reports.

The Latest: Jacobs’ update

Taking to Twitter, Jacobs revealed that Chelsea and Todd Boehly do in fact have a deal on the table for Nkunku to make the switch to Stamford Bridge in 2023. He wrote:

“Christopher Nkunku update. Although Leipzig call a move to Chelsea a "transfer rumour", am told there is now a broad club-to-club agreement in place for summer 2023 worth around €70m” (£60m).

The Verdict: Aubameyang alternative?

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang hasn’t made the start to life at Chelsea that he would have been hoping for since his arrival, so Nkunku could be the perfect alternative up top.

The Leipzig striker has netted an outstanding 12 goals and clocked up two assists in just 15 league appearances this season and can operate in five different positions (Transfermarkt).

Graham Potter will have no doubt been attracted to this attribute, and if he can get a deal for Nkunku over the line, it may well be a massive coup for the Blues.