Milan Agree Loan Deal for Niclas Füllkrug as West Ham Seek New Striker
AC Milan have agreed to a loan deal for Niclas Füllkrug from West Ham, which includes an option to buy at the end of the season but no obligation to do so. Milan will cover Füllkrug's wages during the loan period. This move is intended to free up funds for West Ham to sign a new forward in the January transfer window as they strive to bolster their attack amid a relegation fight.
Füllkrug, who joined West Ham from Borussia Dortmund for £27.5 million in the summer of 2024, has scored three goals in 11 Premier League appearances. However, he has not started a game since 4 October. West Ham's struggles are highlighted by their current 18th place standing in the Premier League after six games without a win. Callum Wilson remains the only senior striker available to manager Nuno Espiríto Santo.
West Ham have been linked to Wolves striker Jørgen Strand Larsen but are not willing to meet the £40 million valuation for the player. Strand Larsen has scored only one league goal this season, and Wolves are currently bottom of the Premier League table. The Füllkrug deal has been regarded as one of the club's worst transfer mistakes under former technical director Tim Steidten. West Ham had attempted to move Füllkrug last summer due to his high wages.
In addition to seeking a new striker, Nuno Espiríto Santo is also interested in strengthening the defence and could revive interest in Toulouse's Charlie Cresswell. There may also be potential movements involving Lucas Paquetá from Brazil, while James Ward-Prowse and Luis Guilherme could be sold to fund further signings.
