Christopher Nkunku: 5 Players Chelsea Can Sign to Replace Injured France Attacker

• Christopher Nkunku will be out for three months after he sustained a knee injury in pre-season
• The France international impressed during Chelsea's US tour but limped off in the final game against Borussia Dortmund
• It presents a fresh blow for Mauricio Pochettino, who still has a bloated and imbalanced squad

Chelsea's coaching staff and recruitment board will be sweating after the latest injury to Christopher Nkunku put a strain on their plans ahead of the new season.

The France international suffered meniscus damage on his left knee after going down under a challenge from Mat Hummels after 20 minutes during the final pre-season game against Borussia Dortmund.

Sports Brief looks at five options in attacking midfield who could replace the versatile forward.

1. Michael Olise

The Blues are interested in their former academy player and Crystal Palace star, Michael Olise. He is capable of playing as a right winger and a number 10. According to Football London, a verbal offer of £25m was proposed despite the player having a £35m release clause. He won't be an immediate fix, as he's also currently injured.

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2. Mohammed Kudus

Chelsea have shown interest in the Ghanaian and reportedly agreed to personal terms, but The Athletic reported that Ajax have an agreement in principle with Brighton for £34.5m, who now have to convince the player to make a switch to the Amex. Otherwise, Chelsea could agree a fee with Ajax.

3. Rayan Cherki

The Blues had interest in the 19-year-old attacker from Olympique Lyon and possibly still do. He reportedly has an exit clause of €50m at the French club. His age and profile represent a suitable option for the young squad Chelsea are trying to build.

4. Joao Felix

Felix is a name that was already on the lips of fans the moment Nkunku went down in the US. The Portuguese spent the second half of last season on loan at Stamford Bridge but failed to nail down a case for a permanent move. He also got a costly red card on his debut. Atletico Madrid could be open to another loan move.

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5. Neymar

The Brazilian playmaker has reportedly informed Paris Saint-Germain that he wants a move away from Parc des Princes after the departure of Lionel Messi and uncertainty around Kylian Mbappe's future. RMC Sport claims that Chelsea have been in contact with PSG over a possible move.

Disasi's advantage for Chelsea

Nkunku is not the only Chelsea player to have a long-term injury; £70m defender Wesley Fofana is possibly ruled out for the whole of next season with an ACL injury he suffered in training.

The club immediately replaced him with his compatriot, Axel Disasi, from AS Monaco. Sports Brief analysed Disasi's advantage over Fofana, and it turns out he would be a perfect signing due to his clean injury record.