RB Leipzig coach Marco Demichelis has played down speculation that Christopher Nkunku could return to the club, insisting the reports are “just rumors” and declining to discuss a possible transfer.
Nkunku has been linked with a move back to Leipzig, where he previously established himself as one of Europe’s most productive attacking players. However, when Demichelis was asked in an interview whether the France international was close to rejoining the German club, the manager offered no indication that a deal was imminent.
“These are just rumors, and I don’t comment on rumors,” said Demichelis.
The Leipzig coach was then asked whether he would welcome the chance to work with Nkunku. Although he acknowledged the player’s quality, Demichelis stressed that his immediate responsibility was to focus on the squad already available to him.
“He is a very good player, but my job is to coach the players I have, and I am very happy with the current squad. I am in daily contact with sporting director Marcel Schafer. There are still a few days until the transfer window closeslet’s see what happens. Some players may arrive, and some may leave.”
Demichelis’ comments leave open the possibility of further activity before the transfer window shuts, while making clear that Leipzig have not publicly confirmed any negotiations involving Nkunku.
Asked whether he could confirm reports that Nkunku would prefer a return to Leipzig rather than a move to Newcastle, Demichelis refused to speculate on the player’s intentions.
“You should ask him that question, not me,” he said.
The manager was also questioned about why Leipzig might want to bring Nkunku back after what were described as three disappointing seasons. Demichelis again distanced himself from the wider debate surrounding the transfer rumours.
“As I said, these are not questions you should ask me.”
Nkunku’s possible return has therefore remained unconfirmed, with Demichelis repeatedly directing questions away from speculation and towards the club’s existing squad. His comments also highlighted the continuing involvement of sporting director Marcel Schafer as Leipzig assess their options in the closing days of the transfer window.
For now, Demichelis says he is satisfied with the players at his disposal. At the same time, he acknowledged that Leipzig’s squad could still change, with potential arrivals and departures before the deadline.
The remarks provide no confirmation that Nkunku is close to signing for RB Leipzig, nor that he has chosen the club over Newcastle. Any decision on the player’s next destination remains a matter for Nkunku and the clubs involved.
