Nkunku Hat-Trick Fuels RB Leipzig Reunion as Milan Eye €28m Windfall

FolioPitch.com – 12 October 2026 | Christopher Nkunku’s stunning first-half hat-trick for RB Leipzig against Eintracht Frankfurt has reignited his career and bolstered AC Milan’s hopes of a significant financial gain. As CM Nkunku s brilliant RB Leipzig reunion continues Milan s hopes of netting 28m grow, the Italian club watches closely, knowing that the French forward’s resurgence could trigger a lucrative permanent transfer.

Nkunku returned to Leipzig in the summer of 2025 after a disappointing single season at Milan, where he failed to live up to his €40m price tag. The move back to Germany was engineered by the player himself, seeking to rediscover the form that made him one of Europe’s most sought-after attackers. So far, the decision has paid off spectacularly. In just a few months, Nkunku has become a key figure for Leipzig, starting four of his six appearances and contributing goals and assists, including a Champions League assist against Como.

The hat-trick against Eintracht Frankfurt was a clear statement of intent. It showcased the clinical finishing and intelligent movement that convinced Chelsea to sign him in 2023 and Milan to invest heavily in 2025. Now, with each passing game, CM Nkunku s brilliant RB Leipzig reunion continues Milan s hopes of netting 28m grow, as the Rossoneri anticipate a potential windfall from the agreed purchase option.

Milan and Leipzig structured the deal as a €3.5m loan with an option to buy set at around €28m. Crucially, there is no obligation to buy, meaning Leipzig hold the cards. If Nkunku maintains his current trajectory, the German club is likely to exercise the option, handing Milan a much-needed cash injection. The 28-year-old’s salary of €5m net is being split equally between the two clubs this season, further easing Milan’s financial burden.

Nkunku’s time at Milan was brief and underwhelming. He arrived with high expectations but struggled to adapt to Serie A and was not part of new coach Ruben Amorim’s plans. After negotiations with Fenerbahçe and other clubs, a return to Leipzig materialized. The player pushed for the move, prioritizing regular playing time and a familiar environment. That decision now looks inspired, as he has quickly regained his best form.

For Milan, the situation is a double-edged sword. On one hand, they missed out on Nkunku’s potential contributions. On the other, his revival could secure a substantial fee that can be reinvested in the squad. The club’s management will be monitoring his performances closely, hoping that CM Nkunku s brilliant RB Leipzig reunion continues Milan s hopes of netting 28m grow with every goal he scores.

Leipzig, meanwhile, are reaping the benefits of a player who knows the club inside out. Nkunku’s integration has been seamless, and his hat-trick against Eintracht Frankfurt was a reminder of his quality. The German side sits in a strong position: they can either keep a proven performer or decline the option and avoid the financial commitment. Given his current form, the former seems increasingly likely.

The coming months will be decisive. Nkunku’s performances in the Bundesliga and Champions League will determine whether Leipzig trigger the €28m clause. For Milan, it’s a waiting game with potentially significant rewards. As CM Nkunku s brilliant RB Leipzig reunion continues Milan s hopes of netting 28m grow, the Italian giants remain optimistic that their summer gamble will ultimately pay off.

In conclusion, Christopher Nkunku’s resurgence at RB Leipzig is a compelling narrative of redemption and opportunity. For the player, it’s a chance to rebuild his reputation. For Leipzig, it’s the acquisition of a top talent. For Milan, it’s the prospect of a €28m windfall that could shape their transfer strategy. All eyes will be on Nkunku as he continues to light up the Bundesliga, with Milan’s financial hopes hanging in the balance.