Transfer Preferences
West Ham is leaning towards selling Niclas Füllkrug rather than allowing him to leave on loan in January. However, the club recognizes the need to remain flexible regarding potential exit strategies. Reports suggest that two clubs from the Bundesliga might present viable options for his departure.
Diminishing Chances for Füllkrug
As time progresses, it seems increasingly probable that Füllkrug and West Ham might part ways, especially as the player appears to be losing confidence in securing a spot in the Premier League.
Performance Challenges
Füllkrug has encountered difficulties with injuries and has struggled to find the net. This combination of setbacks has also made it challenging to fetch a significant transfer fee for him.
Background on Füllkrug
The striker transferred to West Ham in the summer of 2024 for approximately £27 million, arriving with high expectations after a successful stint at Borussia Dortmund.
2023/24 season with Dortmund: 15 goals in 43 appearances across all competitions, playing an important role in helping the team reach the Champions League final.
However, the 32-year-old has been unable to replicate his previous success at West Ham. He has only featured in 27 matches and has scored three goals, largely hindered by injury issues.
Current Situation
This season, Füllkrug has played six times in the Premier League without finding the back of the net. He is currently dealing with a thigh muscle strain after starting in the first two matches under new manager Nuno Espírito Santo. His time at West Ham has not unfolded as anticipated, leading to speculation about a potential move in January.
Loan Considerations
West Ham is evaluating the option of loaning out Füllkrug, which is likely to be the kind of inquiry they receive in January.
While it is still uncertain whether he will be transferring, West Ham continues to explore plans to acquire a new forward.
Interest from Bundesliga
There are indications that Füllkrug is open to the idea of returning to the Bundesliga, a league where he has previously thrived. VfB Stuttgart has reportedly expressed interest in him, particularly if suitable loan conditions can be arranged. As January approaches, it is expected that more clubs may show interest in acquiring him.
