Christopher Nkunku turned down Manchester United move before RB Leipzig return, reports say

Christopher Nkunku could have joined Manchester United during the summer transfer window but instead chose to return to the Bundesliga with RB Leipzig, according to Sky Sport.

The France forward was brought back by RB Leipzig in August, when the German club took him on loan from Milan with an option to make the move permanent. Sky Sport reports that Manchester United were interested in signing Nkunku, but the player rejected the “Red Devils” and opted for a return to the club where he had previously established himself.

Nkunku has since made two appearances for RB Leipzig after rejoining the club and has provided one assist. The 28-year-old’s current market value is estimated at €25m by Transfermarkt.

The reported decision means Nkunku chose a familiar destination in the Bundesliga over a possible move to Manchester United. His return to RB Leipzig came after his spell with Milan, with the German side securing the option to sign him permanently at the end of the loan.

Sky Sport’s report identifies Manchester United as one of the clubs interested in the forward during the summer market. Despite that interest, Nkunku decided against moving to Old Trafford and instead went back to RB Leipzig, where he had previously enjoyed a successful period before leaving for Milan.

His first two matches since returning have produced one assist, giving him an early contribution for the “Red Bulls”. The available information does not indicate whether RB Leipzig will ultimately use their option to complete a permanent transfer, but the agreement gives the club the opportunity to retain Nkunku beyond his loan spell.

For now, the forward is back in the Bundesliga and has resumed his association with RB Leipzig. Manchester United’s interest did not lead to a transfer, while the German club’s loan arrangement has allowed Nkunku to return to a side for which he had already performed at a high level.

Transfermarkt’s €25m valuation provides the latest estimate of Nkunku’s worth, although the final cost of any permanent move would depend on the terms agreed between RB Leipzig and Milan. The key development from the summer window, however, was the player’s choice: despite reported interest from Manchester United, Nkunku opted to return to RB Leipzig.