Former Chelsea midfielder, Joe Cole and Manchester United legend, Rio Ferdinand have hailed Chelsea’s move to sign Christopher Nkunku from RB Leipzig.

Reports in Europe suggest the Blues are close to reaching an agreement to sign the 24-year-old France international.

Nkunku scored 35 goals in all competitions for Leipzig in the 2021-22 season and has continued in top form this season.

He has already netted nine goals in 13 games so far this season.

Chelsea appears to have won the race to sign the 24-year-old, with reports initially claiming Nkunku had signed a pre-contract agreement and even undergone a secret medical at Stamford Bridge.

Speaking on BT Sport on Thursday night, Cole was asked if the news of Nkunku’s arrival at Stamford Bridge excites him and the former England star said, “Massively so.

“He’s powerful, got great technique, can dribble, he can pass, his numbers are good…I think he’s outstanding. Watching him play right now, he looks full of confidence.”

Ferdinand added: “He’s always been identified as a big talent.

“You can see the confidence and I’m not surprised he’s coming to the Premier League.”