Chelsea are more likely to make a move for RB Leipzig forward Christopher Nkunku than Arsenal, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.

Reports in the English media earlier this week claimed that the Gunners were prepared to pay upwards of £100m for the Frenchman, but Romano has played down those claims, stating it is Chelsea who may table a bid for the Frenchman:

“I’ve always been adamant that RB Leipzig are determined not to sell, so it’s not an easy one for Arsenal. So far, Leipzig have not received any offers from the Gunners for Christopher Nkunku, but I can reveal that Chelsea have been following him for some time.”

“Still, the price is over €100m because Leipzig want to try to keep him at all costs, and could even offer him a new contract this summer. Of course, Chelsea have problems up front with Romelu Lukaku, so it’s not surprising Nkunku could be seen as a replacement.”

The €100m (£86m) asking price could prove to be a major stumbling block, but, as Romano points out, Chelsea will be very keen to find someone to replace Romelu Lukaku, if the Belgian does return to Inter Milan.

Nkunku, along with Manchester City pair Gabriel Jesus and Raheem Sterling, are believed to be Thomas Tuchel’s top targets to strengthen the forward line this summer, but the Blues’ new owners will have to delve deep into their pockets to sign them.

In addition to Nkunku’s sky-high valuation, Jesus and Sterling could cost between £50m and £60m each, so the club’s reported £200m transfer budget could be eaten up pretty quickly.