Joe Cole and Rio Ferdinand have endorsed Chelsea’s pursuit of RB Leipzig star Christopher Nkunku.
The Blues are close to agreeing a deal to sign the 24-year-old, although nothing has been signed and the player is yet to make the final decision on his future.
Nkunku enjoyed a breakthrough season in 2021-22, scoring 35 goals in all competitions. He has continued to impress this campaign, netting nine goals in 13 matches.
The Frenchman’s form has caught the attention of some European clubs but Chelsea appear to have stolen a march on their rivals, with reports claiming Nkunku had signed a pre-contract agreement and even undergone a secret medical.
While those reports may have been overblown, Chelsea are confident of bringing Nkunku to Stamford Bridge next summer and both Cole and Ferdinand are looking forward to seeing him in England.
Asked if he is happy to see Nkunku at Chelsea, Cole told BT Sport: ‘Massively so. He’s not someone I’ve watched a great deal of but everything I’ve seen from him ticks the box.
‘He’s powerful, got great technique, can dribble, he can pass, his numbers are good. He’s playing in a strong league, I think he’s outstanding. Watching him play right now, he looks full of confidence.
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‘He’s one of them players who’s played on the edge, against Celtic he showed power, passing, goalscoring, he’s shown everything. Chelsea have jumped in and tried to get the business done early.’
Nkunku, who came through PSG’s academy before heading to Germany in 2019, scored the opener in RB Leipzig’s 3-1 Champions League victory over Celtic on Wednesday.
Former Manchester United defender Ferdinand added: ‘He grew up at PSG by the way so he’s always been identified as a big talent.
‘He’s gone to Leipzig and over the years in the Champions League, I’ve seen him grow, grow in stature.
‘You can see the confidence and I’m not surprised he’s coming to the Premier League.’
