‘Appreciated’: Chelsea could try to sign ‘world-class’ attacker if they fail to get Jesus – Romano

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Chelsea are claimed to be admirers of RB Leipzig’s attacker Christian Nkunku.

According to Fabrizio Romano on Caught Offside the French international could be an option for the Blues if a deal for Manchester City’s Gabriel Jesus doesn’t come to fruition.

Chelsea’s interest in Jesus has developed in recent days, and it seems he has become a top target for Thomas Tuchel’s men, but he is far from the only attacker they are looking at.

Nkunku has flourished for Leipzig this season, leading his team to a top four Bundesliga finish as well as a Europa League semi-final appearance.

The 24-year-old scored 35 goals and assisted 19 in 50 appearances this season, including seven strikes in the Champions League group stages.

The stellar season lead to former assistant manager Achim Beierlorzer describing the attacker as “world-class”.

Now, transfer guru Fabrizio Romano has claimed in his column that the Leipzig man could be on Chelsea’s radar, should the deal for Gabriel Jesus not go through.

Romano said: “I’ve written before about Romelu Lukaku looking for clarity over his future, and Jesus could be a top replacement up front, though Christoper Nkunku is another player appreciated by the Blues.”

The news comes as it’s reported that Lukaku is pushing for a move away from Stamford Bridge, after an uncomfortable return to London.

The potential void in the striker position has lead to Chelsea’s speculated interest in City’s Jesus.

The Brazilian has reportedly decided to leave the English champions this summer, after four Premier League titles at the Etihad.

Both options suit Chelsea’s desire for a fluid option in attack, with Thomas Tuchel opting for a false nine formation in the second half of the season.

Jesus occupied a role on the right of Pep Guardiola’s attack last season, after previously showing his goal threat as a striker.

Nkunku, meanwhile, has occupied roles as an attacking midfielder and centre forward, adapting his game to add more goals, putting himself into Didier Deschamps’ thinking for every France game going forwards.

The 24-year-old joined Leipzig from PSG three years ago, with a step up back to the very best in Europe surely on the horizon.