Aston Villa make approach for Chelsea forward

France international forward Christopher Nkunku has moved a step closer to departing Chelsea, as Aston Villa have made progress yesterday in their efforts to sign the former RB Leipzig striker in a deal worth approximately £25 million. The versatile 27-year-old is needed by the club after a disappointing start to the Premier League season, with Villa yesterday losing to Brentford 1-0.

Nkunku had been linked with several teams across Europe, including Italian side AC Milan, a return to former club RB Leipzig and also interest from French side Marseille. However, the versatile forward seeks to stay in England as he feels that he has a point to prove in the Premier League.

Nkunku moved to Stamford Bridge in 2023, played 38 Premier League games and scored six goals, but did not have the desired impact under current Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca. The Italian boss has told Nkunku he is surplus to requirements, and Villa, who are missing attacking strength in their forward line having lost Jhon Duran last season and with Marcus Rashford opting not to arrive on a permanent basis, will be delighted to get a deal for Nkunku over the line before the close of the transfer window.