RB Leipzig have a plan to keep Christopher Nkunku at the club this summer and keep him out of the hands of suitors such as Manchester United.
That’s according to SportBILD, who say the German side have a strategy to keep hold of the French star until next year at least.
Nkunku has been in fine form once again for Leipzig this season, shining in Germany and in Europe, something that hasn’t gone unnoticed.
Several clubs are all thought to be keen on his signature, including Manchester United, who have been linked on more than one occasion.
Just this week, it was stated that they are ‘in the running’ for his signature, while last month, their interested was described as ‘very hot’ after it was made clear they were ‘showing great interest’ in him.
Leipzig are aware of all of this and ‘want to prevent a departure’ this summer by getting Nkunku signed to a new deal.
They know it’s a question of when, not if, Nkunku will leave the club, but they are keen to extend the when to as late a date as possible.
According to SportBILD’s information, the Saxons have ‘long been working’ on an extension to his current deal, which expires in 2024.
Their plan is to get Nkunku signed to a new, improved deal in return for a release clause being inserted into his contract.
The player would more than double his salary from €3m plus bonuses to around €7m a year, while his agent, Pini Zahavi, would pocket several million in signing fees as well.
That’s expensive for Leipzig but comes with a ‘big advantage’ down the line. While they can demand a €75m figure this summer, next year, that figure will drop significantly as Nkunku will be in the final year of his deal.
Instead, Leipzig propose extending that deal, giving him more money but inserting a €60m clause for next summer, which would gradually decrease, to guarantee them a big payout.
The belief at the club is that Nkunku would recoup the additional salary costs through his performances, while they are far more likely to qualify for the Champions League with him in the team.
He would also be the spearhead for a title challenge next season, with a ‘serious attack’ on Bayern planned in the Bundesliga.
Whether they can convince Nkunku to sign remains to be seen, but the plan is there nonetheless, and there are plenty of benefits for him.
Of course, is someone like Manchester United or PSG come calling with €70m, then it’s likely he’ll move, but Leipzig want to try and protect themselves regardless.
