West Ham United have agreed to send their struggling German striker, Niclas Füllkrug, to Serie A giants AC Milan on a loan deal for the remainder of the season. The move includes an option for the Italian club to make the transfer permanent next summer.
A Disappointing Spell in East London
The 31-year-old forward has endured a torrid time since his high-profile £27.5 million switch from Borussia Dortmund in the summer of 2024. Widely regarded as one of the worst signings orchestrated by former technical director Tim Steidten, Füllkrug has managed a paltry three goals in all competitions for the Hammers.
Plagued by injuries and a failure to adapt to the Premier League's pace, Füllkrug has not started a match since 4 October. His departure is a clear attempt by manager Nuno Espírito Santo to clear the decks and generate funds for crucial reinforcements as West Ham battle to avoid the drop.
Search for a New Striker Intensifies
With the club languishing in 18th place after a run of six winless games, securing a new forward is the top priority for the January transfer window. Nuno is keen to add a player with proven experience in English football to his ranks, with veteran Callum Wilson currently his only senior striking option.
West Ham have identified Wolverhampton Wanderers' Norwegian striker Jørgen Strand Larsen as a primary target. However, the club is hesitant to meet the asking price for the 24-year-old. Wolves, who are bottom of the league, are believed to value Strand Larsen at around £40 million, a figure West Ham consider excessive for a player with just one Premier League goal this season.
Defensive Reinishments Also on the Agenda
Nuno's shopping list is not limited to the attack. The Portuguese manager is also seeking a new centre-back and could rekindle interest in Toulouse defender Charlie Cresswell. To further boost a limited transfer budget, West Ham are open to offers for midfielder James Ward-Prowse and winger Luis Guilherme, another signing from the Steidten era that has failed to deliver.
There is also the possibility of bids from Brazil for creative midfielder Lucas Paquetá. The loan deal for Füllkrug is seen as a vital first step, with Milan covering the player's wages for the duration of his stay in Italy.
The club now faces a critical period, with vital home fixtures against Fulham and Brighton on the horizon, as they aim to climb out of the relegation zone with a reshaped squad.
