Chelsea target Christopher Nkunku is keen to join the west London club, according to journalist Simon Phillips.

The 24-year-old is said to have a €60m (£53m) release clause in his contract, which is set to become active in 2023.

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What is the latest news involving Nkunku?

On Wednesday, The Telegraph reported that Chelsea were tracking Nkunku. Since then, the same outlet has claimed that the Frenchman has actually had a medical ahead of a potential move to Stamford Bridge next year. He had an incredible 2021/22 campaign, so interest in him comes as no surprise.

In total, Nkunku scored 35 goals in all competitions, with four of those coming in the DFB-Pokal as RB Leipzig went on to win the competition on penalties.

Following his exploits at the Red Bull Arena, Nkunku put pen to paper on a new contract in June, ending any hope clubs had of signing him in the transfer window just gone.

However, with a £53m release clause in his contract, which can be triggered next summer, a move still looks highly likely.

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What has Phillips said about Nkunku and Chelsea?

Phillips has told GIVEMESPORT that Nkunku is more than open to joining Chelsea.

Speaking to GMS, the journalist said: "The medical doesn't mean it's a done deal yet. They're still in talks with his people, but he's very keen. He wants to move to London. He's especially keen to play for Chelsea.

"Obviously his release clause comes into play next summer and I think that will be just over 50 million, so he's definitely attainable. And if you're going to buy a top forward player like Nkunku, that's a really good price to get him for."

Would Nkunku be a good signing for Graham Potter's side?

Based on his goal record from last season, yes. Nkunku, who has been described as a "world-class player" by former Leipzig assistant coach Achim Beierlorzer, also proved to be a provider, producing over 15 assists.

However, there is no guarantee that the above will translate to the Premier League. Timo Werner had a phenomenal record in the Bundesliga before his move to Chelsea but could not replicate it in English football's top flight.

In the final season of his first spell with Leipzig, the 26-year-old registered 28 times in 34 league appearances. Compare that to his first Premier League campaign with Chelsea, where he found the back of the net on just six occasions, and you can see that it can be difficult to transition from German football to English football, unless you are Erling Haaland, of course.

The Manchester City striker has already reached double figures this term following his move from Borussia Dortmund during the summer. Should Nkunku make a similar switch to west London next year, Chelsea fans will be hoping he is more like him than their former forward.