In a candid and attention-grabbing press conference appearance, Chelsea star Christopher Nkunku has opened up about his past talks with Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta — and revealed the one condition that could determine whether he’d ever consider joining the Gunners in the future.
Nkunku, who made a high-profile move to Chelsea from RB Leipzig last summer, confirmed that Arteta attempted to lure him to North London during his time in the Bundesliga. However, the French international said he laid out a demand at the time that made the Arsenal boss back away from negotiations.
“It’s true — while I was still at Leipzig, Arteta spoke to me about joining Arsenal,” Nkunku admitted. “But I gave him a condition then, and it made him back off. Now that he still wants me again, I’m going to give him the same condition.”
Nkunku, however, stopped short of revealing the exact nature of the demand, teasing fans and reporters by saying: “It’s something personal to me — if a club wants me, they know what I require. If Arsenal can meet that, then we’ll talk. If not, I’m happy where I am.”
While speculation immediately erupted about whether the condition involves guaranteed playing time, a preferred position, or perhaps a specific squad number, Nkunku remained tight-lipped.
“I respect Arteta a lot, and Arsenal is a great club. But football is about timing and making the right choices. Right now, I’m focused on Chelsea. If something comes up in the summer, we’ll see — but my condition will remain the same as it was at Leipzig.”
This revelation has fueled fresh rumors about Arsenal’s summer transfer plans. With Arteta reportedly keen on adding another dynamic attacker to his squad, Nkunku — known for his versatility, pace, and goal-scoring ability — could be an intriguing target if both sides can find common ground.
As for now, Arsenal fans are left guessing what Nkunku’s mysterious demand might be — and whether the Gunners would be willing to meet it this time around.