Germany duo Felix Nmecha and Deniz Undav could attract significant transfer interest from top European clubs if they continue their strong performances at the World Cup, according to former Germany captain Lothar Matthäus.
Matthäus highlighted the pair in a column for Sport Bild, suggesting their current form could quickly alter their clubs’ plans. He stated that consistent performances at the tournament could make it difficult for Borussia Dortmund and VfB Stuttgart to retain Nmecha and Undav, respectively. Both players recently signed long-term contract extensions with their clubs, but Matthäus believes a successful World Cup showing could override those agreements.
Nmecha, a 25-year-old midfielder, has reportedly already attracted attention from several major European sides. He joined Borussia Dortmund from Wolfsburg in the summer of 2023, signing a contract that runs until 2030. The midfielder has become a key component of Edin Terzić’s side, providing both defensive solidity and attacking impetus.
Undav, meanwhile, has quickly established himself as a vital player for Stuttgart since joining from Union Berlin in August 2023. The 28-year-old striker’s contract with Stuttgart is valid until 2029. Matthäus emphasized that strong World Cup performances often lead to substantial transfer offers, potentially reaching nine-figure sums.
Matthäus drew parallels to Jude Bellingham’s move from Borussia Dortmund to Real Madrid in 2023, which occurred shortly after the World Cup in Qatar. Bellingham’s transfer fee exceeded €100 million, demonstrating the financial power that successful tournament displays can unlock for players and their clubs. He acknowledged the desire of Stuttgart’s Sebastian Hoeneß and Dortmund’s Niko Kovač to build long-term projects, but cautioned that “immoral offers” may prove too difficult to refuse.
The potential departures of Nmecha and Undav would represent significant blows to both clubs, hindering their ambitions to compete not only in the Bundesliga but also on the international stage. Their continued presence would be crucial for maintaining the progress both teams have made in recent seasons.
