Chelsea Handed Shock Revelation About Potential Signing’s 53M Release Clause

Chelsea target Christopher Nkunku has no formal release clause written into his contract with RB Leipzig, according to Kicker. The German publication says there is no evidence of a “ written agreement” that would allow the France international to leave the club for €60m (£53m) next summer.

Instead, there is a “verbal agreement” that means Nkunku would be allowed to leave the Red Bull Arena at the end of the season if a good enough offer is made for him.

That could complicate things for Chelsea. Up until now, it has been assumed that the Blues had an advantage in terms of securing the 24-year-old’s services because they were willing to pay above the buyout fee previously reported.

However, if that clause doesn’t exist then it could allow rivals back into the race for Nkunku’s signature. Paris Saint-Germain, Liverpool, Manchester United and Real Madrid have also been credited with an interest in the player.