West Ham nearing £27m signing of Niclas Fullkrug
31-year-old striker shone at Borussia Dortmund, netting 15 goals in 46 matches
West Ham are on the verge of completing a significant deal for Germany international striker Niclas Fullkrug from Borussia Dortmund for approximately £27 million.This transfer is notable given Fullkrug’s age of 31.
During his stint at Dortmund, Fullkrug had an impressive season, netting 15 goals in 46 matches and contributing to the team’s journey to the Champions League final.
Despite his success, the transfer fee is surprising since Fullkrug joined Dortmund only a year ago from Werder Bremen for £12.6 million.
New manager Julen Lopetegui has convinced the West Ham board to make this considerable investment in Fullkrug, who turns 32 in February.
This move is seen as a gamble, but it aligns with West Ham’s urgent need for a striker fitting Lopetegui’s specifications.
Initially, there was speculation that West Ham’s pursuit of Fullkrug was a strategy to push Aston Villa into agreeing on a price for the younger striker Jhon Duran.
However, Fullkrug is now set to join the East London club.
Fullkrug also showcased his talent on the international stage, scoring twice for Germany at the European Championship earlier this summer, indicating his capability as a direct threat in attack.
Reports from Italy suggested AC Milan attempted to intervene in the deal, but Dortmund confirmed Fullkrug’s departure from their pre-season training camp.
While Dortmund’s statement did not mention West Ham explicitly, it is understood that Fullkrug is in London for his medical.
“Niclas Fullkrug left the training camp in Bad Ragaz on Saturday morning,” read Dortmund’s statement. “Borussia Dortmund has released the striker for talks with another club.”
West Ham has been active in the transfer market this summer, aiming to overhaul the squad under new manager Lopetegui, who succeeded David Moyes.
The club has already acquired former Wolverhampton Wanderers captain Max Kilman for £40 million, Brazilian winger Luis Guilherme from Palmeiras for £25.5 million, and goalkeeper Wes Foderingham from Sheffield United.
Additionally, West Ham is close to finalizing a deal for Leeds United winger Crysencio Summerville and remains interested in Manchester United full-back Aaron Wan-Bissaka.
