Copyright GIVEMESPORT
West Ham United have given Niclas Fullkrug the green light to seal his departure from the London Stadium ahead of the transfer window reopening for business at the turn of the year after Wolfsburg and Augsburg have been among the sides showing early interest, according to Sky Sports Germany reporter Florian Plettenberg. The Hammers have gone into the international break with back-to-back victories, thanks to following their win over Newcastle United with another three points against Burnley last weekend, with goal difference being all that is keeping head coach Nuno Espirito Santo's side in the Premier League's relegation zone. But the tactician is already making plans to make adjustments to the squad he inherited from predecessor Graham Potter and is prepared to offload Fullkrug to make room for another attacking presence to join West Ham. Fullkrug Handed Chance to Seal Hammers Departure Fullkrug has been given permission to quit West Ham in January, according to Sky Sports Germany journalist Plettenberg, and Bundesliga side Wolfsburg have begun exploring a possible move at a time when domestic counterparts Augsburg have also been showing interest in offering a route back to his homeland. The Germany international has more than two-and-a-half years remaining on his Hammers contract, which allows him to pocket £90,000-per-week before bonuses, but they are tempted to cash in on him after he has been forced onto the sidelines with an injury and is still searching for his first goal of the season. Plettenberg has revealed that Fullkrug's representatives have been officially informed that he can embark on a fresh challenge midway through the campaign, resulting in admirers in Italy also being put on red alert, and West Ham have already started looking for a new striker to head to the capital as a direct replacement. The 32-year-old has been on the Hammers' books since sealing a £27.5million switch from Borussia Dortmund in August 2024, but injuries and a lack of form have resulted in him struggling to win over Julen Lopetegui, Potter or Nuno during their respective spells at the London Stadium helm. Fullkrug Exit Would be Best for All Parties After Injuries Although Fullkrug's exit would leave Callum Wilson as West Ham's only senior centre forward, unless they manage to bring in reinforcements in January, it would be best for all parties if he is allowed to take his career in another direction when the transfer window reopens in the coming weeks. The marksman's agent, Thorsten Wirth, has publicly confirmed that the move to east London has not gone to plan and it would be in everyone's best interests if he leaves. With that being the case, the Hammers ought to grant his wish by listening to offers and being prepared to take a financial hit. There is no doubt, based on Fullkrug's performances and injury record since his arrival, that West Ham will not be able to recoup the entirety of the £27.5million they spent on him. But the hierarchy should entertain all offers, including loan proposals, as it would give them room in the squad to bring in a frontman who would carry more of a threat.
