Key Takeaways:
- West Ham have confirmed their willingness to sell Niclas Fullkrug during the upcoming transfer window
- Negotiations with Wolfsburg are stalled due to administrative delays and the striker’s high salary demands
- Premier League and La Liga clubs are monitoring the situation as the deal remains unresolved
Transfer Complications Surrounding Fullkrug’s Departure
West Ham have reportedly agreed to move on from Niclas Fullkrug, whose time in East London has been overshadowed by limited opportunities and a difficult adaptation to the Premier League. The German forward, who joined from Borussia Dortmund with a reputation for physicality and hard work, has struggled to fit into the squad’s tactics and has been plagued by persistent injuries. Now seen as surplus to requirements, Fullkrug is expected to be available for a permanent transfer in the next window.
Niclas Füllkrug is “100%” leaving in January, with a deal expected to be a loan with an option — rather than an obligation — to buy, and at a significantly reduced price.
– C&H pic.twitter.com/UI5B6TSU0o
— Central (@WestHam_Central) December 6, 2025
While the Hammers and Wolfsburg have reached an agreement in principle regarding a transfer fee, the process has ground to a halt due to unresolved changes within the Bundesliga club’s hierarchy. Wolfsburg’s incoming sporting director, Pirmin Schwegler, is set to oversee squad restructuring but has yet to officially assume his role, leaving the proposed deal in a state of uncertainty. No significant transfer decisions, particularly those with considerable financial implications, can move forward until Schwegler is formally in position, according to multiple reports.
Financial Stumbling Blocks
A further complication arises from Fullkrug’s West Ham contract, which far exceeds Wolfsburg’s established wage structure. The English club’s willingness to sell is matched by their desire to cut their wage bill and recoup funds from the original transfer, but a resolution hinges on whether Fullkrug accepts a pay cut or West Ham agree to a financial compromise. Wolfsburg’s corporate ownership provides some flexibility, but their budget remains considerably more disciplined than Premier League sides.
Continental Interest Adds Extra Intrigue
The delay has piqued interest across Europe, with clubs from the Premier League, La Liga, and Serie A reportedly keeping close tabs on the situation. In England, several lower-half Premier League sides—constantly seeking experienced, physically robust strikers—could be tempted by Fullkrug’s availability. Similarly, clubs in Spain and Italy are considering potential moves, eyeing a forward with proven Bundesliga credentials who might better match their tactical demands.
What Lies Ahead for Fullkrug?
Fullkrug’s priority remains regular first-team football, especially with Germany’s national team picture ever-changing. While a switch back to the Bundesliga awaits Wolfsburg’s internal reshuffle, alternative options appear to be gathering momentum elsewhere on the continent. Until the financial and administrative hurdles are cleared, West Ham’s stance is set: ready to offload Fullkrug, but still searching for a club able to conclude the deal.
