<p>West Ham are actively seeking to strengthen their attacking options before the upcoming season, with Niclas Fullkrug from Borussia Dortmund emerging as a prime target. The Hammers are in dire need of a new number nine to lead their line, and the experienced German international fits the bill. According to <a href="https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11095/13187461/niclas-fullkrug-transfer-west-ham-open-talks-with-borussia-dortmund-after-jhon-duran-deal-stalls" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sky Sports</a>, West Ham has initiated talks with <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/borussia-dortmund-tv-schedule/">Borussia Dortmund</a> to secure Füllkrug’s services.</p>



<p>The recent addition of 18-year-old Luis Guilherme has certainly enhanced <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/west-ham-tv-schedule/">West Ham</a>‘s offensive capabilities, yet the team still requires a proven striker to lead their attack. Currently, the Hammers rely on veteran forwards Michail Antonio and Danny Ings, both of whom are past their prime. Antonio, at 34, is particularly in need of a replacement. They initially targeted Aston Villa’s Jhon Duran as a potential successor. However, negotiations hit a snag due to Villa’s hefty valuation of the 20-year-old Colombian.</p>



<p>With talks for Duran stalled West Ham has turned their attention to Niclas Füllkrug. The 31-year-old striker joined Borussia Dortmund last summer and made an immediate impact, scoring 15 goals and providing 10 assists in 43 appearances. His contributions were pivotal in Dortmund’s impressive run to the UEFA Champions League final.</p>



<p>Despite his age, the German has shown no signs of slowing down and is viewed as a valuable short-term solution for the club’s attacking woes. The Hammers are keen to finalize a deal with Dortmund, with discussions already underway. Although Füllkrug has two years remaining on his contract, making Dortmund hold the upper hand in negotiations, the player appears open to the move. This willingness from Füllkrug should facilitate the agreement on personal terms.</p>



<h2>Negotiation details</h2>



<p><a href="https://x.com/berger_pj/status/1818560021665305049" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sky Germany’s Patrick Berger</a> claims that securing Füllkrug is a realistic possibility for West Ham. The <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/watch-premier-league-on-us-tv-internet/">Premier League</a> club has already engaged in discussions with Füllkrug’s management, exploring potential contract terms. West Ham’s technical director, Tim Steidten, has long admired Füllkrug, dating back to his performances for Werder Bremen. This mutual respect could play a crucial role in luring the striker to London.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20240731_WST_519598_Niclas-Fullkrug-Germany-1200x675_d95aacf3.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=675" alt="" class="wp-image-519611" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/07/Niclas-Fullkrug-Germany-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/07/Niclas-Fullkrug-Germany-300x169.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/07/Niclas-Fullkrug-Germany-768x432.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/07/Niclas-Fullkrug-Germany-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/07/Niclas-Fullkrug-Germany.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



<p>The Germans’ asking price for Füllkrug’ is reportedly between $27-32 million. While Dortmund are not eager to lose Füllkrug, given his significant role at the club, they have signed Serhou Guirassy from Stuttgart, which might influence their decision. Füllkrug’s future remains uncertain, with his return to Dortmund today and a decision pending.</p>



<p>Nonetheless, the Premier League side is not the only club interested in Füllkrug. Stuttgart, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/ac-milan-tv-schedule">AC Milan</a>, and <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/atletico-madrid-tv-schedule">Atletico Madrid</a> are also monitoring his situation. Despite this competition, the striker is reportedly open to joining West Ham, which could give the Hammers an edge in the negotiations.</p>



<h2>Borussia Dortmund’s stance</h2>



<p>Borussia Dortmund would prefer to retain Füllkrug, especially after his stellar debut season. He has two years left on his contract, and the club values his contributions. Dortmund’s manager Nuri Şahin has indicated that Füllkrug will play an important role next season. However, the signing of Serhou Guirassy suggests that Dortmund are preparing for a possible departure.</p>



<p>During his first season at the Signal Iduna Park, Füllkrug excelled in domestic competitions. He also played a key role in their Champions League campaign. His impressive performances have elevated his status in European soccer. Füllkrug’s stock continues to rise, making him an attractive option for clubs looking to bolster their attacking prowess.</p>



<p><em>PHOTOS: IMAGO</em>.</p>

West Ham to beat Milan, Atletico to long-time summer target?

West Ham are actively seeking to strengthen their attacking options, with Niclas Fullkrug from Borussia Dortmund emerging as a prime target.

<p>Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann is reportedly pondering a decision to include Niclas Fullkrug in his starting lineup against Denmark instead of Kai Havertz. The hosts are set to face off against the Danes on Saturday, June 29 in Dortmund. <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/nations/germany-national-team-tv-schedule/">Germany</a> glided into the knockout round of <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/uefa-european-championship-tv-schedule/">Euro 2024</a> after going unbeaten in the group stage. <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/nations/denmark-national-team-tv-schedule/">Denmark</a>, on the other hand, finished second in Group C behind a disappointing England team.</p>



<p>While the Germans are excelling in the tournament so far, many fans have become increasingly frustrated with Kai Havertz. Nagelsmann has opted to pick the versatile <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/arsenal-tv-schedule/">Arsenal</a> star in all three of his starting XIs so far. After scoring a goal and providing an assist against Scotland, Havertz’s play has seemingly cooled off.</p>



<p>Because of this perceived drop in form, many are calling for Fullkrug to replace Havertz in Germany’s lineup. The <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/borussia-dortmund-tv-schedule/">Borussia Dortmund</a> star is a more traditional center forward compared to Havertz. He also has made a significant impact entering the fray from the bench. Fullkrug has netted two goals in just 73 total minutes in the competition.</p>



<h2>Germany reporter says Fullkrug will start on Saturday over Havertz</h2>



<p><em>Sky Sports</em> reporter Florian Plettenberg has fueled speculation on the issue by <a href="https://x.com/Plettigoal/status/1806635692644032902">claiming</a> that Fullkrug will start against Denmark. While many German fans may be happy with the potential news, there is still a chance that Havertz remains in the starting XI as well. The reporter went on to say that the Arsenal star could drop further back to play as an attacking midfielder. If so, budding star Florian Wirtz may hit the bench.</p>



<p>Following the claims, Nagelsmann faced the media for a scheduled press conference. Despite being asked about the situation, the Germany manager would not show his cards just yet. Nagelsmann told reporters on Friday that he does not “<a href="https://x.com/Plettigoal/status/1806734397246472498" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">give out information</a>” on his starting lineups.</p>



<p>Although the current Germany boss would not say, Rudi Voller has backed Havertz. Voller was most recently the team’s caretaker following the departure of Hansi Flick in September of 2023. He is also the current director of the German national team as well.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20240628_WST_513942_Havertz-Fullkrug-1200x675_d5f79785.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=675" alt="" class="wp-image-513967" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/06/Havertz-Fullkrug-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/06/Havertz-Fullkrug-300x169.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/06/Havertz-Fullkrug-768x432.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/06/Havertz-Fullkrug-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/06/Havertz-Fullkrug.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



<p>“It’s relatively simple,” <a href="https://sports.yahoo.com/niclas-f-llkrug-vs-kai-125000578.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stated</a> Voller. “Fullkrug’s scoring rate is exceptional. It’s incredible how he scored in the amount of playing time he gets. Nevertheless, Kai is a player I brought to Leverkusen when he was young, and he’s hugely important for the team.</p>



<p>“How he demands the ball, holds it, is always available to pass to, and wins headers. You also need a center forward who can play, even if it’s not the classic type for that position. In his own way, he does it exceptionally well.”</p>



<h2>Executive’s comments confirm team has confidence in Arsenal forward</h2>



<p>Voller’s thoughts on the situation are seemingly very telling. Despite what others may believe, Havertz is an important piece of Germany’s puzzle. Positionally, he may not be a traditional center forward or a natural number 10. However, the 25-year-old star does the job for both club and country. </p>



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-youtube"><iframe loading="lazy" title="How to watch EURO 2024 on TV &amp; Streaming 🏆" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/n0Q39wz9ojA?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>
</div></figure>



<p>The optics show that Nagelsmann does not prefer Fullkrug. The Dortmund forward has managed to earn just three starts since the manager took over last fall (11 total matches). His final appearance in the coach’s starting XI came in a loss to <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/nations/austria-national-team-tv-schedule/">Austria</a> in November. Fullkrug came off at halftime.</p>



<p>Havertz could start on the bench this weekend despite playing regularly. Nevertheless, it would be a drastic move by the manager. Only <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/nations/spain-national-team-tv-schedule/">Spain</a> has earned more points in Euro 2024 than Germany. With the team playing well, tinkering with the lineup would be an extremely bold move by the young coach.</p>



<p><em>PHOTOS: IMAGO</em>.</p>



<div style="background:#f9e4ea;padding:10px;">
<h3>Euro 2024</h3>
<div style="padding:10px;">
Here are some resources to get you ready for Euros!</div>
<div style="padding:10px;">
<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/euro-2024-bracket-20231204-WST-473367.html"><strong>Euro Bracket:</strong></a> Download a free <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/euro-2024-bracket-20231204-WST-473367.html">PDF bracket</a> for the tournament</div>
<div style="padding:10px;">
<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/uefa-european-championship-tv-schedule/"><strong>Euro 2024 Schedule:</strong></a> Full schedule of <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/uefa-european-championship-tv-schedule/">all games</a> for the 2024 tournament</div>
<div style="padding:10px;">
<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/how-to-watch-euro-2024-on-us-tv"><strong>How to watch:</strong></a> Information on <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/how-to-watch-euro-2024-on-us-tv">where to find the games</a> on TV and streaming</div>
<div style="padding:10px;">
<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/how-to-stream-euro-2024-20240107-WST-481041.html"><strong>How to Stream</strong></a> Learn how you can <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/how-to-stream-euro-2024-20240107-WST-481041.html">stream Euro games</a> live in 2024</div>
<div style="padding:10px;">
<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/euro-2024-qualifying-ends-as-teams-learn-their-respective-pots-20231121-WST-471718.html"><strong>Qualifying:</strong></a> Get the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/euro-2024-qualifying-ends-as-teams-learn-their-respective-pots-20231121-WST-471718.html">breakdown on how qualifying shook out</a></div>
<div style="padding:10px;">
<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/euro-2024-games-heading-to-fox-and-fubotv-20211026-CMS-351806.html"><strong>Euros on FOX &amp; Fubo:</strong></a> Details on <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/euro-2024-games-heading-to-fox-and-fubotv-20211026-CMS-351806.html">broadcasting rights for the competition</a></div>
<div style="padding:10px;">
<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/biggest-soccer-events-in-2024-mark-your-calendars-20231025-WST-464504.html"><strong>2024 Soccer Calendar:</strong></a> Get the lowdown on what will be <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/biggest-soccer-events-in-2024-mark-your-calendars-20231025-WST-464504.html">a busy year in soccer</a></div>
</div>

Changing starting XI would be risky business for Germany

Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann is reportedly pondering a decision to swap Kai Havertz for Niclas Fullkrug.

ALL POSTS TAGGED "Niclas Fullkrug"

News

West Ham to beat Milan, Atletico to long-time summer target?

UEFA Euro 2024

Changing starting XI would be risky business for Germany