Arsenal and Man United transfer target Christopher Nkunku transfer value could rise now France have called him up to play alongside Kylian Mbappe and Karim Benzema

Arsenal and Manchester United could face an uphill battle to sign Christopher Nkunku this summer.

The RB Leipzig star is one of the most in-demand players in world football right now after a hugely impressive season for the Bundesliga side.

The 24-year-old has scored 26 goals and created 10 more for his club in all competitions, including an impressive tally of seven in six in the Champions League.

As well as receiving plaudits at club level, Nkunku is now set to take his career to the international stage having received his first call-up for the France squad.

Les Bleus are preparing for two friendlies this month against Ivory Coast and South Africa, with the forward desperate to make his mark.

It means France boast and incredible threat up front now with Nkunku joining Karim Benzema and Kylian Mbappe in the squad, while Antoine Griezmann is behind them.

FRANCE’S ATTACK THIS SEASON
Karim Benzema (Real Madrid)
32 goals
12 assists

Kylian Mbappe (PSG)
21 goals
14 assists

Christopher Nkunku (RB Leipzig)
26 goals
10 assists

Reports from German outlet Bild have already claimed the forward could cost interested clubs like the Premier League giants £62million in order to complete a deal.

Whether that price will go up given his hugely impressive campaign so far, plus the fact that he’s set to win his first France cap, remains to be seen.

But if Arsenal and United are serious about securing his services then they’ll certainly need to pay top dollar to get a deal over the line.

One man who knows Nkunku better than most is Jesse Marsch.

The Leeds United head coach previously worked with the forward at RB Leipzig and is of the belief that his willingness to improve is behind his spectacular rise in the game.

“We have spoken to Christopher a lot about playing on the counter, and also what he needs to do to play as a striker, a no.10 and on both wings,’ Marsch said.

“Christopher has no weaknesses. He is young and still wants a lot more.

“It’s always a good thing when a young player listens to the things we say and also wants to implement them.

“Working with him is a lot of fun as he is really intelligent and has a lot of potential.”