Milan’s €13 million saving as Nkunku heads back to Lipsia

Christopher Nkunku is set to return to Lipsia as Milan and the German club finalize a loan deal, Sky Sport Deutschland reports. The agreement includes a €4 million loan fee and a €28 million purchase option, with Newcastle having been outbid for the 1997‑born French midfielder.

During his spell in the Bundesliga, Nkunku enjoyed his most productive seasons between 2021 and 2023. Although Newcastle also pursued the player, Milan chose the German side, securing the transfer ahead of the English club.

Loan terms and financial package

The loan is structured as a €4 million upfront fee, granting Lipsia the right to buy the player for €28 million. This arrangement creates a total financial package of €32 million.

That €32 million sum is lower than the €37 million Milan reportedly paid for Nkunku last summer. Official numbers will only be confirmed when Milan’s accounts close on 30 June 2026.

Impact on Milan’s balance sheet

Nkunku currently represents just over €16.6 million on Milan’s books, combining amortisation and gross salary. With the €4 million loan fee and the German club covering his wages, Milan expects to save more than €13.2 million this season.

Potential capital gain if purchase exercised

At present, the player’s residual book value stands at €29.6 million, falling to €22.2 million by 30 June 2027. Should Lipsia trigger the €28 million purchase clause before season’s end, Milan would record a €5.8 million capital gain, added to the already realised savings.