EPL Transfer News: Nkunku, Sunderland, Isak and More

Chelsea Ready to Offload Christopher Nkunku at Reduced Price

Chelsea appear willing to take a financial hit on French forward Christopher Nkunku, who joined from RB Leipzig in summer 2023 for £52 million. Despite the high hopes surrounding his arrival, a serious pre-season injury derailed his start at Stamford Bridge.

Throughout the 2024–25 campaign, Nkunku struggled to regain momentum and failed to dislodge Nicolas Jackson as Chelsea’s first-choice striker. Interest emerged in January, with Bayern Munich and Manchester United reportedly keen on the forward. However, both clubs backed away due to Chelsea’s £65 million valuation.

According to The Athletic, Chelsea are now prepared to accept offers in the region of £43.3 million. Manchester United and Bayern Munich are said to retain their interest in the player, who netted 36 goals and contributed 21 assists across his final two seasons in the Bundesliga.

Granit Xhaka Close to Shock Sunderland Switch

Swiss international Granit Xhaka is reportedly on the verge of a surprise return to the Premier League with newly-promoted Sunderland. The midfielder, who made nearly 300 appearances for Arsenal, joined Bayer Leverkusen in 2023.

Despite interest from Saudi Pro League clubs and AC Milan, Xhaka has been most captivated by Sunderland’s proposal. His agent, Jose Noguera, revealed to Sky Sports Austria that a basic agreement has been reached between Xhaka and the Black Cats.

Régis Le Bris guided Sunderland back to the Premier League for the first time since 2017 after winning the Championship playoff final in May. Xhaka’s contract with Leverkusen runs until 2028, and negotiations are now underway between the clubs.

“We hope that Leverkusen will agree to his request to move and that the clubs will reach an agreement soon,” Noguera stated.

Manchester United Target Benjamin Šeško as Højlund’s Future Uncertain

Manchester United are reportedly eyeing a big-money move for RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Šeško. Football Insider reports that the Slovenian forward has a release clause exceeding £70 million, which the Red Devils may be prepared to trigger.

To make room in the squad, United could sanction a departure for Rasmus Højlund. According to Corriere dello Sport, the club is open to loaning out the Danish striker in a deal that includes an obligation to buy. Foot Mercato has identified Atalanta and Lazio as potential destinations.

Isak Demands £300,000 a Week Amid Liverpool and Al Hilal Interest

Newcastle United face a significant wage challenge as star forward Alexander Isak is reportedly demanding a new contract worth £300,000 per week. talkSPORT suggests that the Sweden international is attracting interest from Liverpool and Saudi Arabian side Al Hilal.

Napoli Pursue Chiesa and Grealish After Cooling Interest in Núñez

After pulling out of the race for Liverpool striker Darwin Núñez, La Gazzetta dello Sport reports that Napoli may turn their attention to another Anfield player — Federico Chiesa. The versatile winger could be a target for the Serie A outfit, who are also said to be interested in Manchester City’s Jack Grealish.

Tottenham Hotspur Advance for Illia Zabarnyi

Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly pushing forward with a move for Bournemouth centre-back Illia Zabarnyi. Football Insider states that an offer of £60 million could be enough to finalise the deal.

Chelsea Propose Swap Deal for Morgan Rogers

Chelsea are exploring a player-swap deal with Aston Villa in a bid to sign midfielder Morgan Rogers. CaughtOffside identifies Benoît Badiashile, Trevoh Chalobah, and Tosin Adarabioyo as possible makeweights in the proposed exchange.

Chelsea and Manchester United Battle for Bright Ede

Both Chelsea and Manchester United are keen on signing 18-year-old Motor Lublin centre-back Bright Ede. Onet reports that the Blues are currently leading the race, having nearly finalised a deal before the Club World Cup.

Raphael Onyedika Taking Time Over West Ham Offer

West Ham United are targeting Club Brugge midfielder Raphael Onyedika, but Africafoot claims the 24-year-old Nigerian is in no rush to accept their proposal. Onyedika could instead choose to sign a new contract with his current club this summer.

Real Madrid Prepare Premier League Shopping Spree

Real Madrid are setting their sights on Liverpool’s Ibrahima Konaté and Arsenal’s William Saliba as long-term defensive targets. According to AS, both players are stalling contract talks with their current clubs in the hope of securing moves to the Spanish capital.

Still with the Spanish capital club, we hear that Chelsea’s midfield star Enzo Fernández is reportedly eager to join Real Madrid during the summer transfer window. Fichajes claims that Los Blancos are ready to table a bid of £130 million for the Argentine.