Chelsea have confirmed Christopher Nkunku will be out for an ‘extended period’ after undergoing knee surgery.
The 25-year-old picked up the knock in the Blues’ pre-season draw against Borussia Dortmund in Chicago at the start of August.
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Playing on what was a shocking pitch, the France international was taken off after just 22 minutes at Soldier Field.
The ex-RB Leipzig star came off second best after being challenged by Mats Hummels in the box.
He tried to play on, but was unable to continue, with boss Mauricio Pochettino immediately stating he is unsure when he will return to action.
But now Chelsea have confirmed that the player is set for a lengthy spell on the sidelines.
A statement read: “Nkunku has sustained a knee injury which will rule the forward out for an extended period.
“The 25-year-old has undergone an operation and will now begin a rehabilitation programme with the club’s medical department.”
According to the Daily Mail, Nkunku will be out for over three months, and is unlikely to step foot on the pitch before December.
It represents a huge blow for the Blues, who spent £52million to sign the Frenchman this summer.
Chelsea were hoping Nkunku would help answer their attacking woes after an impressive pre-season campaign.
The Blues are now left with an alarming lack of options up front, with new signing Nicolas Jackson likely to lead the line against Liverpool on Sunday.
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