Christopher Nkunku has rejoined RB Leipzig from AC Milan on a season-long loan for the 2026/27 campaign, with the German club also agreeing an option to buy the France international.
The move marks a return to the club where Nkunku established himself as one of European football’s most influential attacking players. He previously spent four years with Leipzig, making 172 competitive appearances, scoring 70 goals and providing 56 assists.
Nkunku also helped RB Leipzig win the DFB-Pokal in 2022 and 2023. His 126 goal involvements during his first spell have made him one of the most productive players in the club’s recent history.
The 2026/27 season will give Nkunku the opportunity to begin a new chapter at a familiar club, with Leipzig confirming that the agreement with AC Milan includes the possibility of making the transfer permanent.
RB Leipzig managing director for sport Marcel Schafer said the club was pleased to have secured the attacker’s return.
“We’re delighted to have Christo back with us. He has already shown the exceptional talent that he brings to the table and that he can make a difference in games. He knows the club, the city and the area and his ability to feature in a variety of positions will give us additional options in attack.
We were especially pleased to hear Christo say that he wanted to play for RB Leipzig again. Despite interest from other top clubs in Europe, he really wanted to return here. This shows the special connection that he has to our club.”
Nkunku said he had been eager to accept the opportunity to return to Saxony and was ready to contribute immediately.
“When I heard of the opportunity to join RB Leipzig, I immediately wanted to say yes. I’m very happy to be back here. I’m in excellent shape and want to help the team as soon as possible, and I also can’t wait to once again play in front of our fans at the Red Bull Arena.
My connection to RB Leipzig is very special. Even after leaving the club, I continued to keep a close eye on what was happening here. I’m now ready to add a new chapter to my time here at RBL.
During my discussions with the club, I could sense just how much the people in charge here still value me and how much trust they have in me. That’s why Leipzig is exactly the right place for me to perform to my best.”
The return reunites Nkunku with a club that played a central role in his development and success. Leipzig said the player’s versatility across several attacking positions would provide the team with extra options, while his previous record of 70 goals and 56 assists gives the move considerable attacking significance.
Nkunku’s arrival also restores a connection that continued after his initial departure, with the player saying he had maintained a close interest in the club’s progress. He will now have the chance to play again in front of RB Leipzig supporters at the Red Bull Arena during the 2026/27 season.
