Liverpool latest to show interest in £35m Chelsea star

Liverpool’s search for a creative forward has taken an interesting turn. The Reds need more than just a goalscorer— they crave someone who can combine sharpness, technical quality, and intelligent movement. Darwin Núñez hasn’t delivered. And while Hugo Ekitike and Alexander Isak have occupied most headlines, Liverpool are now exploring a slightly different type of option. Enter Christopher Nkunku.

Liverpool set sights on Nkunku

Chelsea want approximately £35 million for the 27‑year‑old French forward, still under contract until 2029. This makes Nkunku one of the most affordable high‑level attacking options available, particularly attractive given Liverpool’s need to strengthen across the front line.

Liverpool join the race

L’Equipe has revealed that Liverpool have officially joined the race to sign Christopher Nkunku this summer. The French publication emphasises that the Reds are “monitoring the situation closely,” valuing Nkunku’s versatility and potential to slot into various attacking roles. Nkunku’s price tag of around £35 million looks reasonable to Liverpool given his Premier League pedigree.

Nkunku – once a leader at Leipzig

Nkunku is much more than a squad option. A few years ago at RB Leipzig he wasn’t just a great striker—he was Bundesliga Player of the Season, leading the line with pace, cunning, instinct and a versatile attacking profile. He thrived as both a number 9 and a number 10, proving himself capable of holding up play, linking midfield, and scoring from all areas. That blend of skill sets drew comparisons to Roberto Firmino, the Brazilian who helped define Liverpool’s golden era.

A mixed spell at Chelsea

Nkunku’s time at Chelsea has been frustrating. Injuries and a mismatch with Enzo Maresca’s system have limited him to just 3 Premier League goals and 2 assists in 27 appearances this season. Yet the flashes of quality are there: he still produces 1.38 key passes per 90 minutes and contests in the 85th percentile for expected assists in the Premier League. When fit, he can drift into dangerous spaces, pick out teammates, and finish clinically.

A low-price move following a difficult season makes Nkunku a strong gamble: he could be a bargain hero or a roll of the dice for Liverpool.

What this means for Liverpool

• Creativity meets experience: Nkunku brings the technical quality Liverpool need in midfield and attack. He can play slightly behind the striker or upfront when required.

• Affordable excellence: At £35 million, his price tag is modest compared to market rates for elite attackers—but offers much more upside than a backup like Mateta.

• Complement to main targets: Nkunku is not a headliner like Isak or Ekitike—he’s an outstanding secondary option. At worst, he fills a No 10 role; at best, he reignites his elite goalscoring knack.

• Timing is everything: Liverpool must strike now. Nkunku fits the Klopp mould: mobile, clever, and technically gifted. If Chelsea are prepared to accept the fee, the Reds have a shot.

Conclusion

With their affinity for proven Bundesliga talent, Liverpool’s pursuit of Nkunku is no shock. What is a surprise is just how perfectly timed it comes. With Núñez floundering and headline options risky or expensive, Nkunku offers an intelligent blend of familiarity, creativity, and flash. If Liverpool can execute a smooth transfer, they won’t just add depth—they could land a player who reignites their attacking sparkle. And at £35 million, it might just be the smartest bet of the summer.