Nkunku Prefers Leipzig Stay Over AC Milan Return as He Eyes Permanent Deal

Christopher Nkunku says he would rather stay at RB Leipzig than go back to AC Milan when his loan ends, and he hopes a permanent deal can be agreed.

The 28-year-old France forward is playing well back in the Bundesliga. He has scored four goals and set up two more in eight games this season. His loan includes a €28 million option to buy, but Nkunku says the decision is not his alone. 

"We've only just got the start of the season behind us," he told Sport Bild. "There are also several parties involved in these discussions. Above all, the clubs would have to reach an agreement at the end of the season. So it doesn't depend on me alone. But of course, I can very easily imagine staying longer."

Nkunku has had a rough few years since he first left Leipzig in 2023. His £52m move to Chelsea was hit by a serious knee injury soon after he arrived, and he scored 18 goals in 62 games over two seasons. He then joined AC Milan for 2025-26 but did not find his best form there either. He played 35 times for the Italian club and scored only eight goals.

Leipzig, on the other hand, feels like home. His first spell there was the best of his career, with 70 goals in 172 games. He said the club and the city mean a lot to him. 

"I experienced some very significant moments in my career and my life in Leipzig and with RB," Nkunku said. 

"I really enjoyed those four years. I can also feel how much the fans love me, and I sense that family atmosphere. That's important to me. I'm very happy. I feel very comfortable in the city and at the club. I know everything here from my previous time. It's a special place for me."

He also wants to get back into the France squad. He last played for Les Bleus in November last year. "Dream is not the right word, but it is now my clear goal," he said. 

"At the level I am playing at, you want to represent your country, too. I have already been part of the national team, and now I want to get back there."

Nkunku would also love to play under Zinedine Zidane if the former midfielder ever takes over as France coach. 

"Zidane is a legend. He is the greatest footballer France has ever had. Everyone loves him, and when I was a young boy, he was one of my biggest role models," he said, as he looked back on the 2006 World Cup in Germany.

Leipzig host Elversberg in the Bundesliga on Saturday.