Newcastle United are prepared to listen to offers for Nick Woltemade next summer, with Juventus and Bayern Munich both linked with the German forward, according to Football Insider.
Woltemade Struggled to Deliver on Tyneside
The 24-year-old joined from Stuttgart in a club-record £69million deal, yet he managed only 11 goals and five assists in 51 appearances for the Magpies. Those numbers fell short of supporters’ expectations given the fee.
Reports over the summer suggested neither party was pushing for a departure. However, Juventus stepped in late and secured a loan for the rest of the season, with Fabrizio Romano confirming there is no option to buy included.
Why Newcastle Allowed the Loan Move
The signing of Mathias Fernandez-Pardo appears to have accelerated matters, hinting that the club’s new ownership is reshaping its attacking plans. Leaving the option out of the agreement initially suggested Newcastle still saw a future for him, yet the timing of his exit has prompted questions over Matthias Jaissle’s faith in the striker.
Juventus and Bayern Munich Eye Woltemade
Woltemade has already opened his account in Turin, netting in the Europa League win over NEC. A strong campaign could help Juventus solve the scoring problems that hampered them last season, although any permanent deal hinges on Newcastle’s valuation.
Bayern Munich, who courted the forward before he moved to England, are reportedly keen again. A return to the Bundesliga could be on the cards, and the Bavarians may see him as a long-term successor to Harry Kane. Talks over a fresh contract for the England captain have reportedly taken place, but Bayern will eventually require a replacement whatever happens.
Our Take on Woltemade’s Future
Newcastle will demand a substantial fee, so a productive season in Italy suits everyone. In my opinion, Bayern look the most logical destination; a Newcastle return seems unlikely.
