VfL Wolfsburg have identified West Ham United striker Niclas Füllkrug as a primary summer transfer target and have held concrete talks with his representatives, according to a report from Sky Germany. The broadcaster describes the 33-year-old German international as Wolfsburg's "dream transfer target" for the upcoming window, with the move contingent on the club retaining its Bundesliga status. Wolfsburg, currently threatened with relegation, would instate the Hannover native as a key leader within their squad should they secure their top-flight place for next season.
Sky Germany reports that direct discussions have taken place between the Lower Saxony club and Füllkrug's camp in recent weeks, though no final decision has been reached. The potential transfer is reportedly viewed as financially viable for Wolfsburg, with Sky claiming Füllkrug would be available "very, very cheaply" from West Ham, who are open to offloading the out-of-favour forward. The report even suggests a free transfer is a possibility being considered by the London club.
Füllkrug's first season in the Premier League has been challenging, with the striker struggling to secure a consistent starting role under manager David Moyes. After joining from Werder Bremen for a reported €13 million last summer, he has found the net only sporadically. His departure would allow West Ham to recoup a portion of their investment and reshape their attacking options ahead of the new campaign.
For Wolfsburg, the pursuit aligns with a need for proven Bundesliga quality and experience, particularly if they navigate their way clear of the relegation zone. Füllkrug's profile as a physical, traditional centre-forward and a respected figure in German football fits the club's apparent desire to add leadership. His career-best form came at Werder Bremen, where he was the Bundesliga's joint-top scorer in the 2022/23 season, earning him a regular place in the German national team setup.
While Wolfsburg is a prominent option, Sky notes that interest in Füllkrug extends elsewhere. Clubs in Major League Soccer, Italy, and Spain are also monitoring the situation, as is his former club Werder Bremen. The coming weeks will be decisive, with Wolfsburg's final league position and the outcome of their talks with the player set to determine the feasibility of the move. For West Ham, a swift resolution would provide clarity as they plan their own summer recruitment.
