Transfer Talk: Nkunku set to snub suitors until 2023

Christopher Nkunku is ready to commit to RB Leipzig for another season — but looks certain to be on the move in 2023.

The Bundesliga star, 24, enjoyed a breakthrough campaign in Germany last term, netting 35 goals in all competitions after being switched to a central striker role. 

Manchester United, Paris Saint-Germain, Liverpool and Arsenal have all been monitoring the Frenchman as a result but the Independent say chances of a move this summer are now slim.

Leipzig are realistic about their talisman’s long-term future but have supposedly convinced him that one more campaign at his current club will be best for his development.

He is expected to sign a new deal as a result — though crucially, that agreement will include a release clause.

If any club does want to lure Nkunku away this summer, they will need to stump up Leipzig’s eye-watering £100million valuation before he puts pen to paper.

United are extremely keen on him but are unwilling to spend such a large chunk of their rumoured £120m summer budget on one player.

Former boss Ralf Rangnick urged Old Trafford chiefs to sign Nkunku prior to his departure but it is thought new manager Erik ten Hag would prefer to prioritise Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong.

Meanwhile, Liverpool have cooled their interest for now after landing Benfica forward Darwin Nunez for an initial £64m.

Arsenal and PSG would be open-minded on paying the demanded fee but it looks like they will have their work cut out to convince the player to jump ship.

As things stand, it is a transfer saga which looks sure to rumble on for a little longer yet.

In other news

Liverpool and Manchester City are both tracking Barcelona starlet Gavi according to Spanish outlet Marca, though the 17-year-old’s release clause is thought to be £85.7m.

Newcastle's pursuit of Lille defender Sven Botman has stalled but a £25.6m deal for Reims striker Hugo Ekitike is nearing completion, according to the Daily Mail.

Tottenham will have to shell out £50m if they are to prise Richarlison away from Everton, report the Telegraph.